Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa

Lore & Background

The film premiered in Japan on July 23, 2005. Most of the staff from the original Fullmetal Alchemist anime began development shortly after the anime's ending, with the original script shortened to fit the film's 105-minute length. A CD soundtrack featuring music by Michiru Oshima and L'Arc-en-Ciel was published. In Japan, it was released on standard DVD and in a limited edition. Funimation later licensed it in North America, showing it in cinemas briefly and releasing it on DVD and Blu-ray.

Reader's Guide

Conqueror of Shamballa is significant as the direct sequel and conclusion to the original Fullmetal Alchemist anime, providing closure to the storylines of Edward and Alphonse Elric. During its Japanese premiere, it remained one of the most popular films of the year. Critical reaction was commonly positive, with reviews praising the film's story and animation. The film introduces new characters such as Alfons Heiderich, Dietlinde Eckhart, and Noah, and features historical figures like Fritz Lang, Rudolf Hess, Karl Haushofer, and Adolf Hitler. Its legacy includes a soundtrack by Michiru Oshima and L'Arc-en-Ciel, and North American distribution by Funimation.

Did You Know?

• The film is a direct sequel and conclusion to the original Fullmetal Alchemist television series.
• Edward Elric spends two years in a parallel universe before the film's main events.
• The Thule Society seeks to enter Edward's world, believing it to be Shamballa, to obtain weapons for World War II.
• The film's original script was shortened to fit a runtime of 105 minutes.