Howl’s Moving Castle
Our look at some of the best Studio Ghibli films continues today, as we focus on Howl’s Moving Castle.
Released in the UK back in 2005, Howl's Moving Castle remains my favourite Studio Ghibli film, as it is another gem from director Hayao Miyazaki.
The movie is an adaptation of the novel of the same name by Diana Wynne Jones: Miyazaki himself penned the screenplay for the film.
When an unconfident young woman is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch, her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking home.
This incredible odyssey to life the curse sees Sophie find refuge in Howl's moving castle, and have a huge impact on all who live there - especially Howl.
Howl's Moving Castle is a movie that delights me every time I watch it: from start to finish, it is another great feat of imagination from Miyazaki.
The director is famed for his use of strong female central characters... Howl's Moving Castle is no different.
Sophie - voiced by both Jean Simmons and Emily Mortimer - is the focal point of the film whose stubbornness and faith brings the best in the characters around her, especially the self-obsessed Howl.
Sophie is a complex and interesting character with real spirit and fight - you are rooting for her the moment you meet her.
Like all Studio Ghibli films, Howl's Moving Castle is just a truly beautiful piece of animation.
I have to admit, I grow a little tired with all the CGI animation that is flying around these days, there is nothing better than seeing the craft of the hand-drawn films, - they really do have a certain charm about them.
Children will be swept away with the characters, the excitement, and the look of the film. While adults can revel in the more complex character relationships and the powerful messages contained within this extraordinary film.
When Howl's Moving Castle was released in Japan back in 2004, it went on to become one of the country's most financially successful films.
It won over critics and audiences as it went on to enjoy success out of Japan: it would be nominated for the Best Animated Feature Oscar.
Howl's Moving Castle remains one of the most magical of Miyazaki's films, and is as great a film today as it was when I saw it for the first time.
The Wind Rises is released 9th May.
Tagged in Studio Ghibli