Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

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 castle.

‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ is a very imaginative and unusual story. With magic, wizards and witches abound, this is an interesting and exciting fantasy adventure.

The film is about several cursed people who desire a spell to be broken. Despite being cursed, Sophie continues to see the beauty in everyone and everything, and she is guaranteed to steel your heart for being such a good Samaritan. ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ is so much more than just an animated film. It sends out a powerful message of acceptance, and believing in yourself. It also illustrates how inner beauty is far more important than outer beauty.

Through a series of weird and wonderful moments, with great animation, the film delves deep into the abyss of self-discovery and humanitarianism.

In Japanese.

‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ received an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year. It won awards for Best Film, Best Music, Best Animated Film, Best Script, Best Director, among others, and received several nominations in various categories.

Would I watch it again? Probably, yes.