Howl's Moving Castle CR: #13

To be honest, I've never seen a Hayao Miyazaki film. For those who don't know, Hayao Miyazaki is the director and writer of some of the most critical acclaimed animated films in the world. He's worked on My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, and what is considered by many to be the best film, animated or not, of all time, Spirited Away. I've only seen bits and pieces of these films, and seen one of them at a young age and can barley remember it. So this was an exciting occasion for me.My first Miyazaki film, and defiantly not my last...

Let's Begin..

PLOT

Based on the book of he same name, Howl's Moving Castle takes place in a steam-punk world that is on it's way to serious war after the disappearance of one of the kingdoms prince. Our tale is not about them though. Our story follows Sophie, a timid hat maker who never has any excitement in her life. Until a wizard by the name of Howl saves her from strange blob creatures. Later that night, the Witch of the Waste places a curse on Sophie where she transforms into an old woman and can't tell anyone about it! She decides to run away and hope Howl can help her. Once she sneaks onto the castle, she makes the excuse that she is the new maid for the castle and is allowed to stay. Sophie soon falls in love with Howl, but also finds a dark secret as well.

(Sorry if the plot is a little vague, I'll get more on the subject later.)

PROS

Miyazaki works with an animation studio named Studio Ghibli who always do an amazing job, and it shows here. The art style, the animation, all of it is gorgeous. I found myself just staring at the screen in ah. I also wasn't sure if this film used CG or if they had the most dedicated team of animators on the planet.

The voice acting is well done. One of the problems I have with anime (I do consider this anime) is that the actors are always way over the top for me. They're always shouting, be it in anger, sadness, or for comedy. Luckily, the actors here are great, acting like normal people and not some person who's had too many Red Bulls. Except for one...

This movie wasn't made for just kid's in mind. This film can be enjoyed by anyone of any age. 

The film also takes its audience seriously. What I mean is that it never fully explains things. It gives you enough hints to make your own idea of these characters. his is also a problem, once again, more on that later.

This movie is very imaginative. The world is so weird and cool it's hard not to love. Howl's castle is like a house junk yard with legs!

There is a very subtle anti-war message in this film. While not in your face, it's still there in passing. A character might mention how much problems the war is making or show how a town looks after war. It's never in your face and they always quickly return to the main plot.

CONS

Emily Mortimer plays Young Sophie, but not very well. She comes off as very wooden and unenthusiastic. Even in the emotional scenes she never sounded concerned or worried.

The story can get a bit convoluted at times, but if you pay attention and think it through (Like I had to) you get the gist of it. I honestly had to use Wikipedia to write a cohesive plot description.

CONCLUSION

I enjoyed this movie. While I didn't exactly see why everyone goes crazy over Miyazaki, I didn't see one of his best works either. This was a very creative and original film for all ages that I say is good to watch if you are interested. Now if you excuse me, I have to go on the hunt for a copy of Spirited Away. Wish me luck!

RATING

RENTABLE