by Gloria Daniels-Moss
Studio Ghibli have been wowing us with their unique animated tales for decades now. Hayao Miyazaki, one of the world’s most skilled artists has provided us some truly delightful features including the 80s hit Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), the worldly popular Spirited Away (2001) and, of course, the infamous cuddly creature named Totoro (1988). One could sit there all day and harp on about any one of the man’s films or indeed any of Ghibli’s, but a film that illustrates the Studio’s charm to the nth degree is Howl’s Moving Castle.
Studio Ghibli have been wowing us with their unique animated tales for decades now. Hayao Miyazaki, one of the world’s most skilled artists has provided us some truly delightful features including the 80s hit Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), the worldly popular Spirited Away (2001) and, of course, the infamous cuddly creature named Totoro (1988). One could sit there all day and harp on about any one of the man’s films or indeed any of Ghibli’s, but a film that illustrates the Studio’s charm to the nth degree is Howl’s Moving Castle.
Released back in 2004, this epic tale has everything you should expect and want to see in such a film. Above all, this is smart, entertaining and heart-warming. Howl’s Moving Castle sees Sofi become cursed by the evil Witch of the Waste, ageing her 18-year old self to an elderly lady. Ashamed and upset with how she now appears, Sofi takes to the hills where she runs into a quirky moving castle. It is said that the castle belongs to Hauru (Howl), a most dangerous and handsome wizard, but upon meeting him he seems pretty intent on helping Sofi break the deadly curse she has been put under. One of the most innovative aspects about this film is having Karushifa, a fire demon who is the magic behind powering the castle to walk. This makes for very amusing viewing material as he constantly reminds Howl that without him, his castle will not be able to move, not to mention what a cute orangey fiery ball he truly is! Except, like Sofi, he is bound by a contract working for Howl and the two make a deal to help each other to become free again.
Not only can this castle walk, it has a magic door that allows you to pass through to different kingdoms – what more do you want? Not to mention the amazing spells Howl can conjure up in this somewhat of a Tardis! Even in his darkest moments, Howl has an undeniable beauty and purity about him, and let’s just say it wouldn’t be a Miyazaki film without a romantic sub-plot, would it? This film is both peaceful and a surreal rollercoaster of emotion for all characters involved. So much happens in these two hours, you shan’t get bored getting lost in this animated universe. As usual the animation is top notch with its luscious backdrops and intricately sketched sets; this is a colourful wonder to behold. Of course, viewing this in Japanese is advised and adds to the authenticity of this eastern tale, yet they pulled out the stops when it came to the dubbed version. Christian Bale brings ruthlessness and charm to the young wizard Howl, alongside Emily Mortimer portraying the young Sofi with energy and emotion. If Karushifa wasn’t funny enough in Japanese, with someone like Billy Crystal voicing him, he is sure to give you some laughs.
Howl’s Moving Castle is original, thoughtful and Miyazaki is sure to cast his spell on you. What can I say? Howl stole my heart and I hope he steals yours.
Howl’s Moving Castle is original, thoughtful and Miyazaki is sure to cast his spell on you. What can I say? Howl stole my heart and I hope he steals yours.
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