I read the novel Howl’s Moving Castle a couple of months ago, and I had been dying to see the movie ever since then. I finally got around to it, and I wasn’t disappointed! Miyazaki never disappoints me and he brought his typical beauty to this film. I was left with a happy feeling after watching and I was really glad I finally got around to watching the movie.I was proud of how closely the movie plot followed the novel. I was told by several people that the movie was different, but I thought the important parts were preserved. I loved the portrayal of the magical door, the castle, and each character’s personality. It was refreshing to see a movie follow its book counterpart so loyally and create its own unique features as well.
Miyazaki’s animation was impeccable as ever, with an insane amount of attention to detail in every scene. There were so many subtle parts of this movie, such as the constant changing of Sophie’s age or the millions of trinkets strewn around Howl’s room. Miyazaki really managed to take a wonderful story and make it even better with his beautiful art style and the magic it so easily portrays. I was also impressed by some of the wonderful flying scenes that Miyazaki seems to do so well. I felt completely immersed in the world and story because of the beauty of it all. I was truly amazed.
The story is really good. It is similar to the book in that it follows a wizard named Howl and a young girl named Sophie. I appreciated how the movie increased the amount of growth and romance between Sophie and Howl throughout the entire plot. The characters were extremely cute, and I couldn’t help laughing every time the wheezy dog appeared or smiling whenever Markl donned his enormous beard. The scene where Howl throws a temper tantrum was extremely well done, especially with the addition of his falling towel and the added bit of comedy. Scenes like this really help to develop the characters and increase the audience’s understanding of their motivations. I also really appreciated the English voice acting, as many English dubs are abysmal (Kiki’s voice anyone?). I thought Christian Bale did a wonderful job (not to mention he has an attractive voice to match Howl’s pretty face).
This movie left me with a feeling of happiness because it was so good throughout. The ending was heartwarming and I felt something for all of the characters. I would recommend it for viewers of all ages as one of the most beautiful films I’ve seen in a long time. I give this movie a 4.5/5 for my movie review.
Check out my novel review for Howl’s Moving Castle!
I love Howl’s Moving Castle. Miyazaki really views adaptations of books the same way that Walt Disney did. You’re going to the movie to see someone’s interpretations of the book. If you want exactly the book, then just read the damn book! And I really appreciate it. In my experience, when you try to follow the book perfectly (Harry Potter) people get really angry when it doesn’t follow up. But when you acknowledge that it’s going to be different from the get go and go about doing your own thing with the book, then I appreciate that a lot more. I don’t nitpick with “BUT THE POTION WAS GREEN!”
Haha true that! And all the important parts of the book were there so I was happy!