Breaking The Cycle: Scar (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

[@Aleczandxr]

That KOTOR quote is actually from KOTOR I, not KOTOR II. Also - One topic that I didn't mention in the video and only touched on through the footage I added: Major Miles. I think Miles had a substantial impact and that should definitely be noted. I didn't tout his importance much here because it wouldn't have added much in terms of contribution to the thesis of the video (a lot of what Miles teaches him is reinforcement for what was already told to him by others), but I should have mentioned his importance as an aside as well, for sure. He was very important to Scar, primarily because he showed Scar what an Ishvallan could do to change things.

[@Jakokokoroko]

I think Miles was the character that showed Scar that there really is a different way to do what he wants to achieve. Everyone else already told him what Miles would tell him but Miles was the only good (and relateable!) example that actually succeeded in doing some of the things that everyone told him he should do. I think that made Scar come around completely. It was probably a feeling of: "If this fellow countryman of mine can do it then I should be able to do it as well." At least that's what I think Miles main role was in Scar's development.

[@fabulousmyriad267]

Aleczandxr (Sightly off topic but) in the same way young Africans are inspired by the positive storytelling & strong characters in Black Panther, I think it was important for Scar to see his fellow countryman make a different choice. Although the Ishvalan villagers tried to council Scar on his anger, their poverty & migrant status was a constant reminder of the consequences of war which just made him angrier. Miles is the first Ishvalan he's met in a place of authority & respect and that makes a lot of difference to someone bringing back pride in ones identity .

[@lookatthepicture4107]

I think you omit how Lang Fang choose the exact same path as Winry

[@Aleczandxr]

just look at the picture Definitely a display of the themes of anger and Brotherhood's take on it, but not an omission because it was not very relevant to Scar himself. If the goal of the video was to talk about all of the ways in which this theme is communicated in the show then I'd agree. But it wasn't, and this theme is all throughout the show so naturally there will be some cases where it doesn't apply to Scar. I didn't want to bog the video down and increase an already lengthy time with stuff that wasn't very contributory to the overall point.

[@Aleczandxr]

SmilePlease Right. The relatable bit is the most important part, by far. It allowed him to conceptualize what could be done.

[@bobbyzamora6389]

FMA in general is a story that continuously champions perspective. People are as they are, not innately anything. Anger is what it is. It can be good or bad. Science can be good or bad. Everything depends, and that is the truth. It's very insightful and realistic in that sense.

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

HxH does that too, a ton of the time. Yorknew and Chimera especially.

[@justmyopinion79]

If a shonen can't properly communicate something like this when it is a goal, then it fails on some level.

[@-kenik9629]

Even when the world is loaded with reason, and interaction we also have to live with the simple fact that every belief must start with something arbitrary. Be it God, the devil, or pure chaos; something had to come first.

[@justmyopinion79]

Kenik Krebs What's your point? Don't mistake my intent for rudeness; I'm genuinely curious.

[@tdfern1]

Bobby Zamora very well said and good point.

[@Jebbtube]

Funny thing is, Bradley should've won their final duel, and he even says that he would have if he were 10 years younger. The only reason Scar scored that final critical blow was because a shard of Bradley's shattered sword caught the sun at just the right angle to blind him, given that he'd already lost his Ultimate Eye earlier. It shows how, no matter how skilled you are, no matter how wide or narrow a gap between you and your opponent, victory or defeat can hinge on the most random of circumstances, and you can never be 100% certain of any success.

[@stormchaser9738]

I liked how it was an eclipse that did Bradley in, which is traditionally considered an act of God. Since Bradley challenges the God of the Ishvallans to strike him down.

[@BlossomPathOnStage15]

I fucking love that scene.

[@qaffqahhaar9380]

When death comes, even a sharp eye will become blurred.

[@alejandromaturana6628]

@@stormchaser9738 also i want to add that is not the hammer of god, but god giving a chance to defeat him, in the end bradley is content, god wont give you everything but chances that you should take making it something of a deity that values proactivity, at least that is my interpretation

[@qwoodz777]

Bro scar even said it himself if Wrath wasn’t injured he would’ve lost badly to Bradley (pun intended) 🤣

[@yonatanhoresh2695]

I just wish you had at least mentioned Miles, one of the most important characters in regards to Scar's change. He sees Miles as a role model for how a person who wants to do good should act; a role model for how revenge wouldn't do you any good, while change will. Miles leads Scar into his motivation during the endgame, and it's a shame that he didn't get any credit for that in this video.

[@Aleczandxr]

Pinned comment..

[@yonatanhoresh2695]

Can't find it for some reason...

[@Aleczandxr]

KZbin screwed it up, check again.

[@yonatanhoresh2695]

@@Aleczandxr Wow. You... Actually answered everything there. Nice, just finished FMAB yesterday and I've been binging your character analysis videos on it. They're really good, especially the Kimblee one (though I'm biased).

[@raptortown]

Was wondering the same thing. Be cool to see a video on miles alone but idk if there lot to unpack with him

[@nvwest]

It's so cool how Father basically removed the emotions he thought sinfull. But in reality it weren't the emotions that were sinfull but the way you acted upon them. Wrath is okey if you use it to see what you want to change. Greed is okay. It's okay to want things and the same is true with the other homonculy

[@Trombi01]

@Cure4Living You aren't really disagreeing with the first comment. Even wrath is okay, as long as you don't act upon it. Desire to murder and murdering are two different things, and that was the Fathers mistake. He thought removing the first would make him free of sin, although he still did the latter.

[@mangotheif]

Scar is so great, the fact Envy caused a catastrophic domino effect by killing an ishvallan child, causing the war, forcing Dr Marco in creating the stone, giving it to Kimblee who then murdered Scars brother, resulting in the death of Winrys parents!

[@scifinerd17]

Ironic that Roy Mustang was the one who was out for blood when he found out Envy killed Maes Hughes. When Scar runs into Envy, he’s already let go of all his hate at that point.

[@JaydevRaol]

Yes exactly!

[@yurikuki]

@@scifinerd17 actually Scar states later on when he does the reverse transmutstion circle he states that he still has hate in his mind (ofc who wouldnt) but because now he understands hatred will only bring more hatred and despair and he wants to end that cycle.

[@scifinerd17]

Uriel When I say he’s let go of his hate, I don’t mean it all goes away, just that he doesn’t let it get the better of him anymore.

[@0isthe1]

All is one, and one is all

[@speedog5879]

scar is awesome and all, but look how cool killua's skateboard is

[@justmyopinion79]

Uh oh, a wild meme has appeared.

[@scyi.3665]

I love this

[@yurikuki]

@@justmyopinion79 Tonpa the strongest nen user ever

[@ShawnWeeded510]

Lmao shut up

[@settingittowumbo1953]

Tru tru

[@macromondo8026]

not gonna lie, whereas in FMA Scar was a badass anti-hero in my eyes it wasn't until Brotherhood that he became my favorite character, if anything i'd like to add he embodies for me one trait: Redemption, to me Scar symbolizes that no matter what, should you choose to, you have the power to rise above and beyond, that independently of your birth, status, beliefs, knowledge, history nor abilities it is ultimately the choice of wether to harm people or help them that'll ultimately dictate your story, and that acknowledging your past mistakes is not weakness nor justification for your shortcomings, but the first step into carving a better future for you and those around you.

[@t-vann48]

Well yeah he didn't really have a real personality in FMA other than revenge machine while in Brotherhood and the original manga he has all these complex deep emotions, he has massive internal monologues where he seriously contemplates if he is doing the just thing or not, and it all comes to a beautiful close in his speech to Mustang about how he won't stop him from taking his revenge but he also is scared about what someone who would be so obsessed with vengeance would do in the future. Every time he and Winry are on screen together my heart simultaneously breaks and gets warmed. Its amazing. The 2003 one didn't have that for me.

[@monfernova]

I prefer 03 Scar, although it isn't as much an arc on redemption but moreso an introspection into how to survive in such a world

[@fangiscool1]

Usually a character that murders as much as Scar only redeems themselves in their final act before death. FMA:B turned that archetype on its head

[@pelonp3691]

I still think the greatest redemption story was the story of Zuko from ATLA

[@skeptiholic3302]

2003 Scar also redeemed himself by forgiving his brother, letting go of his hatred towards alchemists, and saving the people of Lior. IMO, the first anime handled him better than Brotherhood. 2003 version Scar has even more conflicts than Brotherhood's version. At the end he took a more realistic path than Brotherhood's version. I don't think the way he forgives the amestrians in Brotherhood was convincing, it felt very rushed.

[@egeorgiades93]

Scar Vs Wrath is one of the best fights out there. When you think about it, this man was consumed by Wrath throughout the series and now his final battle is versus a man who not only in the one responsible for his Wrath but the man who holds the title Wrath itself. One could say that this final battle was both a physical one as well as a spiritual one. His final trial of shedding himself from his Wrath is fighting Wrath itself. The best part is that this is just one of many perspectives of the Scar vs Wrath/King Bradley battle.

[@Shadic4101]

I love how instead of preaching forgiveness like most anime do (even the greats) FMA talks more about tolerance. I always find it annoying when a character goes through some trauma and then just suddenly forgives the person that caused it

[@arkinyte13]

It’s an old trope, for example in the Shakespeare story the Tempest a man named Prospero and his daughter forgive the brother that betrayed and abandoned them on a desert island.

[@antoncid5044]

It's difficult to live in a state of acceptance/tolerance but not forgiveness, so understandably it seems really hard to write well but FMA does it beautifully.

[@erinivy3260]

aot

[@CrimsonCharan]

@@erinivy3260 There's a fine line between holding someone accountable for their crimes against you, and using them as an excuse to absolve yourself of your own wrongdoings. It's the truth. FMAB is what you get when that truth is recognized and accepted. AoT is what happens when you ignore or willingly reject that truth.

[@boxstory3756]

Scars character arc is among one of my favorite parts in FMA, and may I say just how god damn beautiful the animation is in his fight against Bradley. This video was a nice treat for me to wake up to, great job as always.

[@jareddesilva6957]

Great video as usual. I would like to add that Scar’s brother is shown to wear transparent identical glasses to Scar’s dark shades which may be symbolic of his brother’s open minded understanding of the reality of the world of FMAB while Scar seemingly controlled by anger throughout the beginning of his character arc no longer cared to understand anything or see the multitude of reasons why the mass extermination of his people took place hence dark shades.

[@Aleczandxr]

Huh! Interesting theory.

[@Gadget-Walkmen]

never noticed that.

[@JeimarAGacho]

I didn't notice that. Thanks for saying sir

[@LaserFace23]

I'm glad this is an FMA video on what makes the series good, not one about why the live-action movie is bad. Breaking the cycle of negative videos.

[@Aleczandxr]

I'm a positivity boy (most of the time)

[@LaserFace23]

Keep being that, lol, it's why I like your channel

[@JusaWanderer]

LaserFace23 But being negative about popular things is how you get views. lol Yeah, I feel the same. Everyone knew that movie wasn't going to be good but people are overreacting same as usual. Bless Aleczandxr.

[@justmyopinion79]

I made a genuine audible sound of disgust when I saw that Basement uploaded that. Expected nothing less, though.

[@Wingedmagician]

What’s wrong with saying negative videos. They’re just as entertaining

[@xinshy1370]

In the wake of current happenings with senseless violence and treachery, I find this video comforting because it challenges a person to think that anger can be used for good. It can be channeled not to exact revenge or commit public atrocities but instead, become the energy and motivation to pursue change in society, which is sorely needed. That is one timely upload and you are who we need at this time and beyond. Thank you for always sharing. My respect for you bleeds deep.

[@Aleczandxr]

Many profound thanks, I really appreciate this.

[@arkinyte13]

Righteous anger.

[@DeathGodRiku]

Can we all take time to appreciate how big an influence Scar's brother had on the plot, despite being dead throughout the whole story excluding flashbacks? Not to mention that, despite only having a few minutes of scree time, he feels like a real person.

[@JenamDrag0n]

Exactly! That's one of the many good examples of why I look up to Arakawa-sensei as an aspiring writer.

[@nyabis8044]

That part of the story was absolutely incredible.

[@ginotsun]

Hiromu Arakawa really knows how to give every characters a useful role for the plot. It's rare to find mangaka who can do that. Every characters matter, the plot is solid, the massage of the story is clear, and the conflicts are ended with the right timing.

[@keseubi]

Scar is one of my favorite characters of anime. I love his character and backstory. Goddamnit I love FMA so much..

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

Me too. I rewatch it but very few anime can make me feel like it does. And nothing will love up to the first time I saw it..

[@grau1032]

Yeah, he is just badass

[@Vgamer311]

Scar changes so much that he literally goes from destroying Al’s body to helping to reassemble him.

[@mynamehere45]

Aww, he's helping :')

[@tailedgates9]

That was amazing. XD

[@Jakokokoroko]

What?

[@zubhanwc3]

the name scar is also symbolic. Its a fresh wound that will heal over time, and in its place, a mark will be placed. When the wound was still fresh, he was hunting for revenge, but as he healed, the wound scabbed, and only a scar was eventually left

[@tehawsumninja]

Aleczandxr, once again, you have created a beautiful video essay on a character that never really gets enough focus as to his actual change. Many people have often touched on why Scar has changed over time, and highlight Winry as the change, but never have I seen anyone mention and highlight that Winry stands for the exact same goals as to what he has been taught and shows that someone with that mindset can be strong. This is honestly one of the reasons I have seen many people have said that Winry is their favorite female character in all of shonen, due to how "weak and powerless" she is as far as a power level of the other characters, yet is probably mentally the strongest out of the main cast, with the chance to look past and realize that hatred never solves anything. Not only this, but drawing attention to the fact that Scar begins to take on this mindset and begin to better himself, look for why his brother died, what he left behind, instead of trying to mindlessly get revenge for the death. He is no longer looking for meaning in what his brother died for. He is looking for meaning in what his brother lived for. I also think it's an interesting idea that by finally using the final step of alchemy towards the end of the show, Scar is metaphorically bringing his mindset full circle. He is now complete. He is being fulfilled. He is "completing" the cycle back to life, no longer breaking it at the death point in the circle of life. He has begun to actually live his life and go beyond just wanting to end other's. Thank you for all you do man. I seriously love each and every one of your videos. No other youtuber besides maybe supereyepatchwolf has even come close to your analyses and made me think about my favorite series in new and interesting ways. I'm pretty sure I say it on almost every video I comment on, but you are honestly amazing and I can't wait to see the next one.

[@Aleczandxr]

*Winry stands for the exact same goals as to what he has been taught and shows that someone with that mindset can be strong ... He is no longer looking for meaning in what his brother died for. He is looking for meaning in what his brother lived for.* Exactly - Winry is lyrically reflective of what everyone had been saying to Scar, but it finally hit home because her case was such a personal one and because she showed him what he could be. And subsequently of course, everything about moving on requires that newer perspective, one focused on the value of his brother's ambitions rather than trying to appease his memory. It all comes full circle as you say, it's great. And thank you ever so much. The next one will be on a new series and a different style of video but hopefully you enjoy it all the same.

[@marianofedericoberaldi8791]

Aleczandxr Excellent vid as always man. I'm glad to see every month your channel is gaining new subscribers, you deserve it for all the thought you put behind each of videos. I hope you reach 100 K soon.

[@Aleczandxr]

+Maraino Thanks a lot!

[@HxH2011DRA]

"Some would say...wrath" OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH 13:32 LMAO

[@hunterkagejoestar5516]

Im sub to you

[@HxH2011DRA]

HunterKage Joestar Coolness, expect me to upload more old educational shit and memes~

[@YoutubeMadeMePickHandle]

I literally imposed in sounds of imaginary air horns when I heard that

[@HxH2011DRA]

mjl1999 Saaaaaame XD

[@yetanotherrandomyoutubecha4382]

lebliu That's dangerous territory you're entering here...

[@mcgoldenblade4765]

Man, every time you make a video you always manage to outdo yourself. I am extremely envious of the ability to be able to break down the philosphical meaning and themes of a certain character or story. Of all people, you are probably the best I've seen when it comes to this. Anime is a medium that I love so much due to how much it can teach you in ways of ideals and life lessons. And it's people like you who help enhance this aspect. I greatly appreciate it.

[@cas2762]

The fight between Scar and Bradley is so very symbolic. The man driven by hate for so long, fighting the personification of Wrath itself.

[@mfrebel7831]

That was an amaizing character break down. Shows how much work you put in this video. Generally eveything is just amaizing. Great work

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you so much :)

[@thisstatementisfalsenothin5312]

masayoshi kunz you misspelled amazing Twice Sorry

[@Nightman221k]

I'm so happy to see you make a video about my favorite FMA character. Scar's story is truly one of the most well written parts in Fullmetal Alchemist. Hiromu Arakawa's take on Scar's character growth is nothing short of masterful and it's one that never fails to pull me in upon every rewatch of the series I do. Really phenomenal character analysis here! I'm going to share it with my friends since they know how much I like Scar.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you so much! Any and all exposure and sharing of my stuff is super appreciated :)

[@gamersxpro1234]

Wonderful analysis, what I love about your videos along with character insights and the clear explanation of complicated themes are the lessons behind it, so we can use these insights in our own lives and improve it. You sir have become a wonderful teacher.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you. That's so extremely kind of you and pleasing to hear. I don't think that I deserve praise like this but I'll take it for sure and do my best to continue providing content that you can enjoy.

[@Late0NightPC]

I really loved that, for even the people who didn't get the deeper themes of FMA brotherhood, it is very obvious and clear that Scar, a once angry man, reaches the climax of the series by going up against the embodiment of what he learned to let go of, wrath and anger.

[@rudolvonstrequiem]

Coincedentially, i was binge watching your videos again last night, and the last video I watch was about Bradley. I'm glad to get another FMA video, and its about Scar ^^

[@rudolvonstrequiem]

It speaks volume, make you appreciate the significance of The "Wrathful Sin" Fuhrer King Bradley ^^

[@katsuo7798]

I love Scar’s character arc. Definitely one of my favorites in the show.

[@JapanFreak2595]

Yet again at a loss for words. Truly am inspired by your work my man.

[@Aleczandxr]

^_^

[@christhechilled]

I like Scar character development, from crazy mass murdering villain to anti hero, that's a character that I'll remember,forever!!! U rock Aleczandxr!!!!!!!

[@Aleczandxr]

:)

[@Khanarch]

Yo Aleczandxr, this wasn't only just a review/analysis about the show, this felt like a whole damn therapy session. I needed this, Thank You.

[@Aleczandxr]

My pleasure.

[@youkokun]

Thank you for analyzing Scar so clearly and not shying away from uncomfortable aspects. You're right in saying this aspect isn't discussed often, and I think it's because we want to avoid real-world parallels, but you spoke calmly and strictly only about the narrative. That lets the audience mull it over ourselves; thank you! Impeccable editing, too!

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you so much! I tried to be particularly deliberate with this one. And awesome that you noticed the editing too, I’ve definitely been focusing on that lately!

[@fatedanarchy1756]

I love the move from selfishness to selflessness for Scar. He was able to see beyond his limited point of view and realize how much more of an impact he could have on more grand events. A far more productive and healthy outlet for his feelings. Great video as usual!

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks!

[@stoyanpetkov3853]

To draw a Shonen comparison, Scar is a better-written Sasuke

[@Gadget-Walkmen]

don't compare, please god no.

[@Levsa399]

Yes, that would’ve made Naruto so much better!

[@havelyntherockelyn1576]

@@Gadget-Walkmen Do it I wanna see the Sasuke fanboys mad

[@starvoltnexus3139]

Yeah as far as the revenge plot is concerned

[@AlanLiebheart]

The comparasion is out of place. Both Naruto and FMAB have different themes.

[@hibah890]

some would say.... *WRATH*

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

I lol'd

[@noradora5713]

This video is absolutely incredible and Scar has one of the best character arcs of all time but also “Aw he’s helping :’)” lives in my mind rent free

[@nyabis8044]

I love those little moments with Scar where you see he’s actually a pretty nice guy and obviously cares underneath that rough exterior. Especially his relationship with Mei. Their first meeting he wanted to pet her panda lol. And the scene where he tells her to take Envy back to her country and save her clan always gets to me. And even from beginning we see that he is much more gentle with Nina and says that her passing will be in peace. It’s those little moments that show that he’s really just a broken man.

[@TheAutistWhisperer]

Scar's redemption arc is one of the best, one of my favourite characters in the anime/manga and seeing him go from villain to hero( perhaps anti-hero cause that's more realistic to me) was an emotional roller-coaster and whilst I'm here KOTOR II: The Sith Lords > KOTOR.

[@Aleczandxr]

Easily. KOTOR II is the best Star Wars story.

[@TheAutistWhisperer]

Aleczandxr Just when I thought I couldn't like you anymore you go an say that. KOTOR II is the best one and it's a damn shame Obsidian didn't get a chance to do a follow up cause they written the script for KOTOR III.

[@kingsleydembele8981]

How was he a villian in the first place?

[@easschung9442]

There's something about revenge driven characters that I love. Kurapika, Scar, Stain. All so well written.

[@calcelmoanayru5870]

Kurapika = Scar > Stain, but all are good characters.

[@nemeru3352]

Is Stain really a revenge character?

[@BDL3035]

And then there's Sasuke... gives revenge characters a bad rep

[@franklucas8409]

Eass Chung check vinland saga you will like thorfin Alot.

[@sitabita262]

Sander Tegneby I would say no. Stain's goal isn't to get revenge on anyone or anything. He's a character that has become disillusioned with the world. The position he once desired, a hero, is now something he only sees as corrupt due to how much money is invested in the industry. People aren't becoming heroes to save others, and Stain sees doing that as wrong. His goal is to return altruism back into the career, and he does this by killing what he considers fake heroes and will only die or be stopped by a true hero, and the only person he sees as a true hero is All Might.

[@eclipsesonic]

Awesome video. Very insightful and detailed on Scar's character arc. Honestly, I feel like he's the most developed character in the series.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you.

[@WoodenClockwerk]

Always excited to see a new video from you!

[@marlom7882]

WoodenClockwerk ditto

[@Aleczandxr]

:)

[@PyroManiac637]

I think Scar and Guts would get along well.

[@bobbyzamora6389]

They're pretty similar actually, that's a good point.

[@heehoo-yf5zc]

All conversion between the two would solely consist of low indistinct grumbling xD

[@BigBoss-sm9xj]

XD

[@lunabearsong2043]

@@heehoo-yf5zc THAT is hilarious!

[@shosty575]

@Ricardo Santos yeah

[@thegardenofesim1174]

You sir are a legend You continue to make quality content also thanks for reigniting my love for fmab I hope you continue to make content and also how about other characters for your analysis from other franchise Scar's journey was truly well done and it shows just how the series is truly a masterpiece

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you, glad these are enjoyable and useful for you! I do cover characters in many franchises, though obviously a lot of the character analysis comes from HxH, Berserk and FMA because there's so much to uncover and because I really love those stories. But I've talked about characters from Gurren Lagann (at length), Death Note, Ping Pong, Psycho Pass, Shinsekai Yori, Steins;Gate, Code Geass and more, and in the future I'll continue to talk about different stuff. Next week there'll be a video covering an anime I haven't talked about before, for instance.

[@321gametime5]

I love your video's so much. FMA and FMA Brotherhood are amazing shows and have a lot of stuff to talk about.

[@victorgastonnogueira8137]

This video made me remmember once I shared on Facebook these words from Martin Luther King Jr.: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." And then I friend of mine, trying point a contradiction in that said to me: "I want to see you love someone when he is aiminh a shotgun at your face." But that is not the point. It is not about love the one who hurt you, like you mentioned about Winry. I think that if I repay violence with more violence the cycle will go on and on. But if I choose another route, a positive and constructive one, maybe violence, hatred, wrath can end right there.

[@echogaybaldfith7466]

The beginning section on anger really hit me hard. That was deep man. Genuinely deep. I love it when I read or hear something that makes me actually pause and reflect on myself and the way I choose to behave, and the way I choose to think.

[@greyscott5908]

This video is extremely well timed considering what's been going on in the world. I never get tired of your Brotherhood videos(or any of your videos for that matter) I can always expect well written well analyzed works by you on our favorite series ~

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you, I definitely agree that it's a pretty eternally relevant message. Much appreciated!

[@Redchinesestones]

Lovely analysis! It definitely cheered me up after being disappointed in the live action movie. Scar's and Winry's shared narrative is one my favourites in storytelling in general, even though its not what one would consider a fun story- it is one of great progress, with a lot of care and thought put in to it for all sides from both from arwakawa and you yourself for this vid! I think the main thing I have to add is how interesting it is that scar and Kimberlee switch places at their last meeting because of Winry. Kim is furious at the end for not managing to exterminate scar, and scar himself kinda just doesn't give a fuck about him anymore. It's both hillarious and astonishing since before meeting winry again at the briggs- Scar was still all in for shredding Kim to bits. But the change is a straight 180- and arguably good for everyone. It also pleased me in that even though Kim was rather interested in meeting winry and was super 'nice' about it, winry still ended up helping scar, the person she had the least reasons to help. Instead she kinda gave Kim the metaphorical middle finger, which is karmaiclly so pleasing. Since Kim himself in someways is the root cause for both Scar's and Winry's conflict. Lastly, I think my fav thing about Scar's Narrative, is that Arwakawa makes it a point that Scar's change is something he earned and had to mentally work through to achieve. As much as I absolutely love the resolution reached through winry and Scar's interactions. It's Scar himself that does the work to bettering his life and others, & at no point is winry held responsible to make that happen. Which is a great change Imo, because a lot of narratives treat a women helping a troubled man like an obligation, or inappropriatly romanticize it, none of which cow sensei enforces. In fact she does the opposite- winry is a hero becuase she does good for others when it is the least of her obligations. And Scar ultimatly changes into a hero because of all the people he met, Marcho, Mei, & Miles as well as doing the personal legwork of reflecting on his own thoughts and that of his master and brother. It's a much more wholistic approach to self actualization and recovery from trauma, and I think I'll always really appreciate that.

[@hunterkagejoestar5516]

Great character analyzed. You're the best youtube analyzer for FMA and HxH.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you.

[@GnosticPhilosopher]

"Leave it for the Prophets to interpret God's will..." -Scar

[@Oceaniz]

Also, Scars final battle being against "Wrath" is so fucking cool.

[@KyleHauff]

Scar vs. Wrath has long been my favorite fight in all of anime. Besides being an epic clash between badass characters, I never could fully explain why I love their battle so much. This video eloquently verbalizes many of those unexplained inner-feelings. All the more reason why Brotherhood is a work of art and also why Aleczanxr is one of my favorite KZbinrs. Truly powerful stuff. And Chrono Cross music!? You sir are a God among men. I would subscribe to your channel 100 times if I could.

[@Aleczandxr]

Haha, many thanks. I’m glad that you enjoyed so much.

[@ibrahimkorkmazdemirsoy]

Dude, you SHOULD make a vide about Envy! I Don't know if you wanna ever do, but it'd be awesome!

[@Aleczandxr]

It's a definite possibility!

[@ibrahimkorkmazdemirsoy]

Cool, i hope so :)

[@HououMinamino]

I would like to see this as well!

[@jasminemcgarigle8834]

Aleczandxr Or just make a video on all the characters. I know I'd watch them all. (You don't have to, but I really like your videos and your perspective on these characters.)

[@AlgernontheWizard]

It completely flew over my head that scar defeated the literal embodiment of wrath and freed himself

[@lettucebimbap]

I just finished reading FMA recently (today), after putting it off for so long and only just started watching Brotherhood. Scar became a fast favorite and I've got waaaay too many screenshots of him lolol. I feel like he's so underrated and this video made me really happy. Thank you for making this! I think it hit the points as to why his character development is such a powerful message to our spiteful/vengeance driven society

[@Aleczandxr]

Of course! Thank you for watching and I’m happy that you found it valuable.

[@MogofWar]

21:55-22:02 Love how you reference the other FMA anime without even mentioning it! Just love it!

[@TheWolfyHero]

17:55 Chrono Cross' Scars of Time... I see what you did there. Great video, keep up the good work! =D

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks!

[@D0P3ST]

Really glad you got a sponsor. This video really expanded one of the few characters I didn’t care to much about in FMA, and I’m glad to be enlightened! Keep it up man!

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks very much Chris! I love hearing that I've offered an alternate enjoyment of characters or shows that people were lukewarm on.

[@D0P3ST]

Almost finished Shinsekai Yori, so hopefully i can get back to that video soon.

[@warmaster072]

I’ve rewatched fmab so many times and every time I feel like I find something new or analyze something I didn’t even notice before truly one of the best anime

[@annebird9195]

Or as I explained to my sister when she walked in mid season: Scar is their Zuko.

[@DemonicRemption]

@Anne Compton That's hilarious, because I didn't notice that until I read this.

[@arjunabazaz1006]

Scar > Zuko Change my mind. Scar’s redemption arc is better bc with Zuko he goes from clearly bad to clearly good whereas Scar’s arc was more complex

[@annebird9195]

@@arjunabazaz1006 I'd say that they're both complex bag guy to good guy characters with scares on their face lol.

[@JenamDrag0n]

@@arjunabazaz1006 I wouldn't say that Scar's redemption arc is necessarily /better/ than Zuko's, but it fits in tone with the story it's a part of. In both stories, there is/was a war and there was genocide of a race of people (Ishvalans and Air Nomads) with the effects of the war still being felt by all characters, but AtLA is... softer about the horrors of war compared to FMA:B due to the tone it sets and its intended audience. FMA:B by contrast pulled no punches, so Scar was allowed an extra level of nuance by the very nature of the story he was part of. There's also the slight but significant difference that Zuko is part of the Fire Nation instigating the war whereas Scar is a victim of the instigators of the war, so they're coming at the war from different sides and that also has an effect on their characters.

[@FranciscoTPNDF]

Scar looked like such a complicated character to develop. It is not very common to find a character go from a completelly bidimensional nature to a more complex and deep personality with an organic feel to it. The fact FMA could do it with Scar just shows how good the series is and how well it used a character that could very easily just be frustating. Great read on Scar and his importance tothe series!

[@Machowesker17]

I love it. Scar was never one of my favorite characters but I never underestimated his importance in the narrative. I also love how his story arc loops into Roy's by the end with Envy. Great video as always.

[@Blizzic]

Your character analysis is on another level.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you.

[@nadz6601]

It's a fest whenever I get a notification about one of your videos, even if it's a bad day sometimes it immediately becomes better...welp, time to make some popcorn and some tea.

[@Aleczandxr]

[@MicDropPod_]

*cries in fanboy* I haven't even finished the video yet but it doesn't matter. THANK YOU

[@YaminoBakuraotaku]

An excellent analysis. I love what Arakawa has to say about anger and you broke it down beautifully.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks very much!

[@sergiotorres8857]

I love your videos man. Keep it up I appreciate the content. You help me understand myself, you helped me understand why I love these animes so much. Thank you.

[@Aleczandxr]

No worries at all, just doing my job. Thanks for watching and supporting :)

[@tuumef1799]

Your attention to detail is impeccable. I saw aspects of Scar here that I missed during the days watching and reading. The lessons that can be taken seem startlingly simple, but are very deeply complex when explored. Thanks for your hard work.

[@Aleczandxr]

My pleasure, and thanks for the kind words! Glad you found it valuable.

[@ezachleewright2309]

While anger is certainly not always a bad emotion, I'd say as a motivation, revenge is only beneficial compared to doing nothing at all. We should punish wrongdoers so they realize they were wrong, and feel remorse, and learn from their mistakes, AND/OR to threaten and prevent others from making the same mistake before they even try it.

[@nolongeranobody869]

Completely agree

[@davidmuhs4590]

3:22 one of the greatest quotes ive ever heard thank you for sharing

[@AMTheOcarinaPlayer]

When you realize the true hero of FMA:B is not the Elrics or Hoenheim but Scars’ brother. 😳 mind blown.

[@marinoaristy5659]

Honestly man your one of the best anime KZbinr. I always learn something new from your videos. Keep up the great work.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks very much.

[@lidyarahmah6307]

A: who is ur fav character in FMAB? B: Oh, i love ed B: i love El B: i love scar, and wrath, and greed, and mustang, and izumi, and literally EVERYBODY in FMA

[@keaton1283]

Except tucker, fuck that guy

[@StewartFletcher]

He's a phenomenal character and this was an impressive break down. Great job

[@cosmothecosmonaut5329]

I really like the idea in the show of simply not being able to redeem yourself after you've done something horrible & inexcusable, like partaking in genocide. And the fact that the characters themselves know that they have to face the consequences of their actions and don't try to justify them.

[@itamar6637]

The way you cover up things makes the subject much more fun and appealing to understand. It's really well scripted in a way that covers up the whole topic while still keeping the watcher attentive. Great video, great channel. - Keep on with the good work.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks so much pal, I'll keep grinding away.

[@michaeldavis9190]

I personally don't hold Scar accountable for killing the Rockbells. He had no idea where he was, he was in massive amounts of pain, he'd just watched all of his people die, and he was in a room with two Amestrians. He wasn't in his right mind. I personally believe it is just a tragic accident.

[@andrewwitham8493]

Nah dude, the fact of the matter is he still had a choice and he CHOSE to take life with Senseless violence, it cannot be justified.

[@michaeldavis9190]

@@andrewwitham8493 he was not in his right mind. He didn't understand what was going on and he was in an extreme state of shock and fear. He panicked and made a decision he almost certainly would not have made of he was capable of thinking straight.

[@manofwisdom000]

Yeah, no. That just makes Scar even more unlikable and predictable because you would easily expect him to do just that. And then of course changing sides after just one lecture from Miles. You would not help anyone who slaughtered your own family and friends in real life, now, would you? Scar is also the same one to preach to Mei Chang about leaving the country’s problems to itself and yet he ends up helping to change the country himself. Brotherhood and the manga most certainly did not handle his redemption arc well at all whatsoever.

[@nirablackfire2792]

@@andrewwitham8493 So waking up in a state of utter shock when the last you remember is someone trying to murder you is a valid state of mind to be making choices? Scar woke up, and in the span of five seconds suddenly realized his brother is dead and he is now alone... What happened was not a man choosing senseless violence. What happened was a man who had a near death experience went into survival mode upon waking up, and had it kick into overdrive with the added trauma of processing his brother's self sacrifice. The death of Winry's parents was an accident, more casualties of a gruesome bloodbath spearheaded by the real monsters...

[@RisingSunReviews]

This was an amazing video. Made me really re-watch this show now. Scar is a great character, but it's only a small piece of all the different aspects that make the whole show so amazing. You've more than earned my sub with this one.

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you, I'm happy that you enjoyed!

[@theblackphantomthief]

Essentially, It's okay to be angry, as long as you use that anger in a positive way.

[@DibbzTV]

Great analysis. One of your best

[@Aleczandxr]

Much appreciated!

[@Grt_Sge]

There are two quotes that came to mind when I thought about Scar. “A man may not take his revenge right away due to circumstance, but he will remember it everyday before he sleeps. He will take his revenge when the time is right even if he has to take the whole world with him.” -I don’t know the author “If a man were to disguise justice as vengeance such justice will only breed further vengeance. And trigger a vicious cycle of hatred.” - Pain( Naruto)

[@lo4750]

I love your content, honestly. It's usually deep and well structured, and your ideas are new and thoroughly explained. I'm looking forward to more fma content!

[@Aleczandxr]

It’ll be a long wait before more FMA content but thanks very much!

[@justmyopinion79]

Very good video, this is among my favourites of yours now.

[@MinaRoy]

This was really nicely put together. Thanks for making this! Off to check out the rest of your channel.

[@ericschuller908]

I was chastised and punished for exhibiting any rage and anger at all when I was a child. It was my instructors' way of ensuring my subservience and control over me instead of teaching me to utilize and make productive use of my trauma and hatred. Rage does not taint a person. It does not render them impure or unholy. It is the most fundamental human emotion out there. I came to accept that anger and rage will always be present in my mind. Ironically, I found peace by accepting my rage, anger, fury, and need for revenge. It fueled me to help others as a means to reassert dominance over my own life. In my hatred for cruelty and savagery, I did what I could to help people. It was the only thing that made it easier to live with. My rage will never die. My contempt for those who tortured, caged, and shackled me as a child and stole everything from me will never give out. However, I chose my own purpose in the absence of a teacher or mentor. I chose for myself to make use of such pain and fury. I chose well.

[@salometipsandtricks2786]

It will die. Time travel is a thing. You can change your past

[@AngelX712]

Amazing video loved it even the music in the background and the quotes used too. You did Scar justice.

[@Aleczandxr]

Much thanks as always mate.

[@PDX-xl5kl]

“In a Drearier Story where Scar could not have found anyone to learn from, we could have had a lot darker outcome for the nameless Ishvalian”- literally, FMA ‘03

[@pm2881]

amazing video, reminded of just how great fmab is. honestly Scar might be my fav character

[@Aleczandxr]

Thanks!

[@JH-lb6qf]

A SATURDAY upload?! Oh hells yeah!

[@alfreddrewes9362]

You're vids, are absolutely amazing. The amount of work and effort you put into them is really shown not just through the length of the videos, but also through the amount of detail you give to the analysis. Keep up the good work. :)

[@Aleczandxr]

Ah, thank you so much! I'll do my best!

[@jazzmusicstops374]

8:31 "Your face asplodes!"

[@t-vann48]

Scar is a fantastic character that really enriched the series in a serious way. So many of the really important themes moments in the series come from scar and it really is a sad thing that he didn't get put into the movie. He is one of my favorite characters in the show and his moments with Winry are both some of the most heart breaking and heart warming moments in the show as a whole. This is another really great video and I really hope you keep making more character analysis videos on the characters in FMA

[@Aleczandxr]

Thank you! There’ll probably be another FMAB video or two in the future.

[@evandugas7888]

Anger is the feeling of justice when you feel you have been wronged. When you feel you have been wronged by yourself or others. That can be good or bad.

[@marianmayuga1338]

Oh. My. God. As the video progressed I was getting goosebumps each time you presented a new idea!!! I knew you would have a lot to say about Scar, or about FMAB with particular attention to Scar's role -- all the details from the macro to the micro perspective that you found made me love FMAB so much all over again even when I thought I already knew everything that made it so good!

[@Aleczandxr]

That’s awesome to hear, thanks!

[@marcusprice5034]

Man I'd love to talk characters with you man. Love your videos

[@Aleczandxr]

Cheers dude!

[@TheBlackKakashi]

I've had all your FMA videos saved to my watch later playlist until I wat hed the series. After two years, I just finished it and now I can enjoy these videos.

[@heehoo-yf5zc]

One of the best revenge plotlines executed in anime. Naruto should've taken a few pointers from FMA ^^

[@0816M3RC]

rαภυвίαℓstσηє I think the best revenge plot line is Berserk.

[@heehoo-yf5zc]

0816 M3RC Oh definitely. Even though hawk boi did nothing wrong.

[@beastvicious8672]

Jimmy ichigo He's good in the first part. The problems with him begins in Shippuden.

[@ahmedparacha3708]

Fearch 93 yes but naruto has great arcs and characters but it is not as good as fma, HXH, beserk

[@beastvicious8672]

ahmed paracha I know. Didn't say otherwise.

[@CFHoneyBadger]

Brilliant writeup! This helped remind me why I loved the writing and characters of this series so much.

[@_sa_watcher2369]

Damn, I just finished watching a perspective of someone justifying the rage of Eli and the innocence of Abby from the Last of Us Part II. Scar relates to these two characters so much that its sad to see the world so gray, where no one will ever be truly right under rage or commitment to violence.

[@MDrams22]

I just finished FMA and I couldn't wait to start watching your content on it. I really enjoyed this video as Scar was one of my favorite characters. It was so interesting to see a man possessed by vengeance consistently show many redeeming qualities, and continue to grow until the very end of the story. You nailed his character arc perfectly. Great job.