The Unique Case of Filler in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is widely celebrated as one of the most faithful anime adaptations ever produced. Based on Hiromu Arakawa’s complete manga, the 2009 series from Studio Bones benefits enormously from being made after the source material had already concluded. This timing allowed the production team to adapt the entire story without the need for filler arcs to let the manga get ahead. However, even in this near-perfect adaptation, a small number of episodes deviate from the manga or serve as pace breaks. This guide clarifies which episodes are truly filler, which are often mislabeled, and how to navigate the series without losing narrative cohesion.

Unlike many long-running shonen anime that accumulate dozens of filler episodes, Brotherhood’s filler count is remarkably low—only three episodes out of sixty-four are entirely non-canon. Understanding which ones are skippable and which carry canonical weight is essential for both first-time viewers and those revisiting the series.

What Makes an Episode Filler?

In anime production, a filler episode is any content that does not originate from the source manga. These episodes are written by the studio to fill time, provide comic relief, or explore side characters without advancing the main plot. Because Brotherhood was produced with the full manga available, the studio had no need to invent substantial new storylines. The few filler episodes that do exist are either a recap, an alternate-reality dream sequence, or an introductory episode designed to ease new viewers into the world. Comparing this to the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist series, which diverged entirely after its first season and created an original ending, highlights how disciplined Brotherhood remains to Arakawa’s vision.

Episode 1: “Fullmetal Alchemist” – A Filler Introduction

The very first episode of Brotherhood is completely anime-original. It centers on the Elric brothers in the northern city of Liore, battling a rogue alchemist named Isaac McDougal. The episode is a fast-paced action piece that introduces Edward’s alchemy, Alphonse’s armored form, and the military’s involvement with alchemy. However, this storyline does not appear anywhere in the manga. It was created to serve as a standalone hook for viewers unfamiliar with the franchise, especially those who had not seen the 2003 series. The manga’s actual opening chapter, which begins with the brothers in the desert town of Liore meeting Rose and Father Cornello, starts in Episode 2.

Should you skip it? For a first-time viewer, Episode 1 is a lively introduction but skippable without missing plot points. For those who have already watched the 2003 adaptation or read the manga, jumping straight to Episode 2 is perfectly fine. The episode offers excellent animation and a glimpse into the brothers’ dynamic, but its events are never referenced again. Resources like Anime Filler List confirm its filler status.

Episode 27: “Interlude Party” – A Mid-Series Recap

Landing exactly at the midpoint, Episode 27 is a recap episode that summarizes the story from the failed human transmutation through the revelations about the Homunculi, Father, and the Philosopher’s Stone. The framing device shows Lieutenant Riza Hawkeye reading a report to King Bradley, intercut with flashbacks. This episode was designed as a breather for weekly broadcast audiences, not as a narrative necessity. It adds zero new information or character development. Viewers who binge-watch the series can safely skip it without any confusion. Episode 28 continues directly from the end of Episode 26, and the plot carries on seamlessly.

Episode 39: “Daydream” – A What-If Exploration

Episode 39 is the most distinct filler. After Edward is impaled by a metal pipe during a battle in the village of Baschool, he falls unconscious and experiences a dream where his mother Trisha is alive, his father Hohenheim is home, and Alphonse never lost his body. This alternate reality seems perfect, but cracks appear—alchemy behaves oddly, and key characters are missing. Ed eventually realizes the illusion and fights to wake up. While the episode touches on themes of denial, guilt, and acceptance, it contains no canon events. The story picks up in Episode 40 with Ed waking up, and nothing from the dream affects the real plot. It is the most easily skipped of the three filler episodes, though some fans appreciate its emotional resonance.

Episodes Often Mistaken for Filler

Online filler lists sometimes label several canon episodes as skippable, which can lead to missing important story beats. Here are the common culprits and why they matter.

Episode 16: “Footsteps of a Comrade” – The Aftermath of Hughes’ Death

Following the shocking murder of Maes Hughes, this episode focuses on his funeral and the emotional fallout for Roy Mustang, Riza Hawkeye, and the Elrics. It contains no action and moves at a deliberately slow pace. Some viewers mistake this for filler, but it is entirely canon. The episode deepens Mustang’s resolve, introduces the complexity of his revenge arc, and shows how grief shapes the characters’ motivations. Skipping it would weaken the emotional payoff in later episodes, especially during Mustang’s confrontation with Envy. It is advisable to watch it at least once to fully appreciate the series’ emotional core.

Episodes 13–14: The Dublith Arc – Not Filler

The episodes “Beasts of Dublith” (13) and “Those Who Lurk Underground” (14) are often incorrectly flagged as filler. In reality, they adapt manga chapters that introduce Izumi Curtis’s role, the chimera soldiers at the Devil’s Nest, and the first appearance of the Homunculus Greed. These elements are vital for understanding the later chimera team, the nature of Greed, and the concept of Philosopher’s Stone–powered homunculi. Skipping these episodes would leave viewers confused about who the chimera fighters are and why they return in the final battle.

Episodes 25–26: “Doorway of Darkness” and “Reunion” – Mislabeled Canon

These two episodes bring Hohenheim back into the story, reveal his connection to the Homunculi, and set up the Promised Day. They are often listed as “mixed” or “filler” on some sites, but they are direct adaptations of manga chapters. Episode 25 includes the flashback to Hohenheim’s past with Xerxes, and Episode 26 shows his reunion with his sons. Neither should be skipped.

Why the Filler Misconception Persists

Two main factors fuel the belief that Brotherhood has more filler than it actually does. First, the early episodes rush through the manga’s first few volumes, compressing events that were already covered in the 2003 series. This brisk pace can make some canon episodes feel like they are jumping around, but they are still accurate to the source. Second, some viewers mistake slower, character-driven canon episodes for filler because they lack action. However, Brotherhood’s strength lies in its character development, and those quiet scenes are crucial. Always verify against reliable guides before skipping episodes beyond the three confirmed filler entries.

A Streamlined Viewing Guide

If you want to skip filler without losing narrative continuity, follow this path:

  • Start with Episode 2 (the manga’s real beginning)
  • Watch Episode 2 through Episode 26
  • Skip Episode 27 (recap)
  • Watch Episode 28 through Episode 38
  • Skip Episode 39 (dream sequence)
  • Watch Episode 40 through Episode 64 (finale)

This removes only three episodes, cutting about 70 minutes of non-canon content. The entire canonical story remains intact. You can stream the series on legal platforms like Crunchyroll or Hulu (depending on region). For further verification, the MyAnimeList episode list provides community ratings that can help gauge whether an episode is widely regarded as skippable.

The Impact of Skipping Filler on the Viewing Experience

Skipping filler episodes can heighten narrative momentum, especially for first-time viewers who want to avoid interruptions. However, the three filler episodes in Brotherhood are not egregious; Episode 1 is a solid introduction, Episode 27 offers a quick recap, and Episode 39 provides a poignant character moment. None of them drag on for multiple episodes or introduce contradictions. Some fans choose to watch them on a second viewing to appreciate the studio’s artistry without the pressure of plot progression. The decision ultimately depends on personal preference. The series is short enough (64 episodes) that even with filler, the total runtime is manageable.

External Resources and Community Consensus

For those seeking more granular guidance, the Anime Filler List remains the most trusted source for episode-level categorization. The subreddit r/FullmetalAlchemist also offers frequent discussions where veterans share their recommended watch orders. Many long-time fans argue that Episode 1, while filler, is worth watching for its animation quality and the way it establishes the brothers’ partnership before the manga storyline begins. Others skip it without regret. The community’s consensus is clear: the official three filler episodes are the only ones that can be cut without harming the story.

Production Context: Why These Fillers Exist

Understanding why Studio Bones included these three filler episodes requires looking at the production context. Episode 1 was created because the studio assumed many new viewers would not have watched the 2003 series and needed an action-heavy hook to keep them engaged. The original manga opening in Liore is relatively slow, focusing on establishing the Elrics’ quest for the Philosopher’s Stone. By front-loading an original action sequence, the studio hoped to capture a broader audience from the first frame. Episode 27 served a practical broadcast function: recaps were common in weekly TV anime to help viewers who missed episodes. Episode 39 was born from director Yasuhiro Irie’s desire to explore the emotional weight of Edward’s trauma in a way that fit the series but did not disrupt the manga’s pacing. These decisions reflect careful thought rather than lazy padding.

The Manga’s Pacing as a Factor

Arakawa’s manga is known for its tight structure, with each chapter advancing the plot or deepening character relationships. Studio Bones had to decide whether to adapt every panel exactly or take small liberties to fit the broadcast format. The three filler episodes are precisely these liberties. They do not contradict the manga because they exist outside its timeline. For example, the events of Episode 1 could theoretically occur during a gap in the manga, but they are never referenced because they are not part of Arakawa’s plan. This approach preserves the integrity of the source material while giving the anime a distinct identity.

Comparing Brotherhood’s Filler to the 2003 Series

The difference between the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist and Brotherhood regarding filler is stark. The 2003 series began adapting the manga when it was only partially complete. After the first season, the studio ran out of source material and created an original storyline that diverged significantly from the manga. This resulted in episodes that are technically filler but form a coherent alternate narrative. In contrast, Brotherhood had the complete manga from the start, so its filler episodes are isolated and easily removable. For viewers who have seen both series, this contrast highlights how much the availability of source material affects an adaptation’s fidelity. The 2003 series is beloved for its darker tone and original ending, but Brotherhood is the definitive canonical adaptation.

The Debate Over Episode 1: To Watch or Not to Watch

Episode 1 generates more discussion than the other two filler episodes combined. Proponents argue that it serves as an effective cold open, introducing the alchemy system and the brothers’ relationship without requiring prior knowledge. They also note that the villain Isaac McDougal, despite being non-canon, is a memorable character who showcases the destructive potential of alchemy. Critics counter that the episode gives a misleading impression of the series. Brotherhood is a slow-burn drama with deep philosophical themes, but Episode 1 presents it as a pure action show. New viewers who start with Episode 1 might expect constant combat and be disappointed by the slower canon episodes that follow. The safest approach is to watch Episode 1 as a bonus feature rather than an essential part of the story. It can be enjoyed for what it is: a well-animated, standalone action piece that has no bearing on the main narrative.

How Filler Impacts Character Perception

Filler episodes can sometimes distort how viewers understand characters. In Episode 39, Edward’s dream shows a version of his mother and father that reflect his deepest wishes and regrets. While this does not add to the canon, it provides a window into his psyche that might make his later decisions feel more informed. Some viewers argue that this humanizes Ed in a way that the manga does not explicitly show. However, this is a double-edged sword: the dream sequence might lead viewers to attribute personality traits to Ed that are not present in the source material. For this reason, purists often skip Episode 39 to maintain a purely manga-aligned understanding of the characters. The debate underscores that filler, even when well-crafted, can subtly alter the audience’s relationship with the story.

The Role of Emotional Payoff in Filler

Filler that focuses on emotion rather than plot can feel more acceptable to viewers. Episode 39 is a prime example: it does not advance the story, but it resonates emotionally. Many fans report that watching Ed confront an illusion of his happy family makes his real-world sacrifices hit harder later on. This kind of filler is often called “filler with heart” in the anime community. It does not feel like a waste because it enriches the viewing experience on an emotional level. Episode 27, by contrast, has no emotional resonance—it is purely recap. Episode 1 offers excitement but not depth. Among the three, only Episode 39 earns its place through emotional weight, which explains why some fans defend it even while acknowledging its non-canon status.

Practical Tips for First-Time Viewers

If you are watching Brotherhood for the first time, here is how to handle the filler episodes without confusion or regret:

  • Decide on your goal: If you want the purest manga experience, skip all three fillers and start with Episode 2.
  • Consider a compromise: Watch Episode 1 for the action, skip Episode 27, and decide on Episode 39 based on your tolerance for dream sequences.
  • Use a checklist: Mark the three filler episodes as optional. If you are unsure, check community ratings on MyAnimeList before each episode.
  • Revisit later: Save the filler episodes for a second watch-through. Seeing them after knowing the full story can give you a new appreciation for the studio’s efforts.
  • Trust the community: The r/FullmetalAlchemist subreddit maintains a pinned watch-order thread that is updated regularly. Consult it if you encounter conflicting advice.

These tips help you tailor the viewing experience to your preferences without sacrificing narrative coherence. Brotherhood is flexible enough to accommodate both strict and relaxed watch orders.

The Complete Canon Watch Order

For those who want to watch every canon moment in the correct sequence, here is the full episode list with filler marked:

  • Episodes 2–26: Canon. Start here.
  • Episode 27: Filler recap. Skip.
  • Episodes 28–38: Canon.
  • Episode 39: Filler dream sequence. Skip.
  • Episodes 40–64: Canon. This includes the final battle and conclusion.

If you choose to watch Episode 1, place it before Episode 2, but remember it is not necessary. This watch order preserves the flow of the manga while removing only the episodes that were never part of Arakawa’s story. The result is a lean, focused viewing experience that moves from the Liore arc to the Promised Day without interruption.

Streaming and Availability

You can watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood on multiple streaming platforms. Crunchyroll offers the series with subtitles and dubs in several languages. Hulu also carries the series in select regions. For physical media, the complete series is available on Blu-ray and DVD, often with the filler episodes included as part of the full set. Digital purchase options include Amazon Video, Microsoft Store, and Apple iTunes. When streaming, note that some platforms list Episode 1 as the first episode of the series, so you may need to manually skip to Episode 2 depending on your preference. Check the episode descriptions to ensure you are on the right track.

Conclusion

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’s reputation for fidelity is well-earned. With only three true filler episodes out of 64, it stands as a model of efficient adaptation. Episodes 1, 27, and 39 can be skipped without missing canonical plot points, but each offers something unique—whether it is a fast-paced introduction, a mid-series recap, or a dream sequence that explores the characters’ deepest desires. For viewers who prioritize a lean story, the streamlined watch order presented here removes those three episodes. For those who want the complete broadcast experience, watching all 64 episodes remains rewarding. Either way, the core tale of two brothers seeking redemption flows uninterrupted, making it one of the most satisfying anime journeys available.