In your opinion, what makes fma so special?

[Skruffy]

the story. Although it is not as long as naruto/bleach/op/etc, the story is so thought out, it deserves to be one of the best.

It also is not generic.. it has a mix of everything. drama, joy, action, fighting, etc.

 

[HiiTMAN]

Stop watching the orginal FMA, and start watching FMA:Brotherhood. It has a way better storyline. But since you didnt like the manga, Brotherhood is based on the manga. So its your choice.