Fullmetal Alchemist, Volume 7: Reunion on Yock Island (Episodes 25-28)

Description

Perhaps the truth about the past is its eternal presence within us all. This theory has never been more evident as the events of long ago emerge once again in the paths of Manabu and his comrades. During a routine mission, the situation becomes decidedly non-routine as the flames of the past surround Captains Murase and Julia. Can they depend on each other when their lives are on the line? David also encounters an old flame of his own when Big One is sent to rescue survivors from a small aircraft crashed on a remote planet known as the resting palce of the most beautiful jewel in the Universe. Soon, the Sirius Platoon will come face to face with a mystery that may prove true love is stronger than dark, ghostly legends.As Fullmetal Alchemist enters its second season, Ed and Al pursue the rumor that the inhabitants of Ishbal created a Philosopher s Stone without using alchemy. If the Elrics can learn how it was accomplished, they may be able to restore their bodies without harming anyone. After an unrewarding trip with Winrey, the Elric Brothers meet the one person they fear: Izumi, their old alchemy instructor. The filmmakers intercut the Brothers present encounter with Izumi and flashbacks of their early training, suggesting the ongoing journey to mastery of their art. But episodes 27 and 28 suffer from a cultural gap. Izumi is modeled on a traditional Zen master: she gave Ed and Al the koan "All Is One, One Is All" to unravel to test their worthiness as pupils. But in place of the slap Zen masters sometimes administer, she beats the Elrics savagely and needlessly. To Americans, Izumi acts not like a wise disciplinarian, but a brutal sadist. While her training ultimately benefits Ed and Al, these episodes don t translate emotionally. (Rated TV PG: violence, grotesque imagery, tobacco use) --Charles Solomon