Howl's Moving Castle

## Howl's Moving Castle *Howl's Moving Castle* (*Hauru no Ugoku Shiro*) is one of Miyazaki's most enchanting creations — a rich romantic fantasy full of magical wonder, based on Diana Wynne Jones' beloved novel. Sophie, a modest hat-maker, is cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an old woman. Seeking help, she stumbles upon the magnificent walking castle of the flamboyant wizard Howl, and the fire demon Calcifer who powers it. Sophie becomes the castle's housekeeper and slowly unravels Howl's complex secrets and vulnerabilities. Set against a war-torn world, the film weaves together themes of self-worth, love, pacifism, and the transformation of one's identity. The castle itself — a lurching, steaming, magnificent machine — is one of animation's greatest creations.