Howl's Moving Castle (2004) Review in 2025
In a fantasy world, a young girl named Sophie is turned into an old woman by a witch and must navigate a magical moving castle to break the curse.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for children, but it may be too complex for younger viewers.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-see for fans of fantasy and adventure films. It's a beautifully animated and engaging story with memorable characters and stunning visuals.
Spoiler Alert!
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Sophie, a young girl who lives in a kingdom, is turned into an old woman by a witch named the Witch of the Waste. She meets a wizard named Howl, who lives in a magical moving castle, and together they embark on a journey to break the curse and defeat the war that is threatening the kingdom.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique blend of fantasy and adventure elements. The plot is complex, but it's easy to follow and understand.
acting8.00/10
The voice acting is generally good, with Chieko Baisho and Takuya Kimura delivering strong performances. However, some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with distinct personalities and motivations. Sophie is a strong and determined protagonist, while Howl is a complex and intriguing character.
direction9.50/10
Hayao Miyazaki's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the story and characters. The animation is stunning, with beautiful and imaginative sequences.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with a unique and imaginative visual style. The use of color and lighting is particularly noteworthy, adding depth and emotion to the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's unique blend of fantasy and adventure elements, stunning animation, and memorable characters make it a standout film. The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong and determined protagonist.
Cons
Some of the supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional, and the pacing can be a bit slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a witch, I'm just a girl who's been cursed!"
"You're a witch, and you're going to turn me into a frog!"
