Hayao Miyazaki has returned to create another piece of phenomenal animation that his fans will not be disappointed to see. If you're searching for a movie to take your child to and are tired of the elaborate violence characteristic of the younger generation's animation, go and see Howl's Moving Castle.
Although the film hails from Japan, the stereotypical violence associated with Japanese animation is absent. Instead, Howl's is undoubtedly charming and parents may find themselves just as entertained as their children. It embodies messages of friendship, peace and selflessness.
Enter a world of magic spells, witches and wizards as you follow the tail of a cowardly but powerful wizard (Howl) as he summons his courage in order to resolve a war between kingdoms. Accompanying him is Sophie, a young girl who becomes his travel companion early on when Howl saves her from glob monsters. In addition to the adventures she encounters with Howl, Sophie has to be cautious of the evil Witch of the Waste, who cast a spell transforming her into an old woman. As the film unfolds, the audience discovers the Witch of the Waste's love for Howl and how jealousy motivated her to cast the spell on Sophie.
The film opens with an overwhelming image of Howl's castle floating above the land and slowly creeping across the scenic countryside. The castle is a magnificent concoction of spare tin, metal and other materials you'd find in a junk yard. A magical place where a door can portal you to anywhere you want to go, the castle takes on a character of its own as the film goes on.
Despite the film's somewhat abrupt ending and overall predictability, Howl's Moving Castle will have audiences of all ages laughing and entertained with characters like Calcifer (voiced by Billy Crystal), Howl's fast-talking, fiery friend whose job is to supply the castle with energy, and Scarecrow, a silent scarecrow that always seems to show up at the right time to help out his friends. Ultimately, you are guaranteed to encounter a cast of quaint and lovable characters with witty dialogue that will take you on an unforgettable adventure.
