Howl's Moving Castle (Studio Ghibli Collection) (2 Discs)

This is by far my favorite Ghibli film. The characters are awesome along with the storyline. This movie really speaks for itself so please watch it!

This is my favourite of all the Studio Ghibli films. I had no previous knowledge of the story from the book, but from watching various extras on the DVD I think that it's pretty close to the original story, so should please fans of the book. I was already a fan of the company when this film was released and was in no way disappointed when I watched it. I loved the story and the graphics and music were as beautiful as I would expect from one of their films. The English dubbing is very good and watchable, but I'd still recommend a second viewing with the original language and subtitles. Extremely fun and lively.

I orignally bought this on a whim, I'm an anime fan and saw one with a wierd title. What's the harm, eh?
Well I was in for a shock, Howl's Moving Castle makes it into my top 3 anime movies and they're all from Studio Ghibli. The Animation is lovely, the detail in everything from a bike in the background to the actions of the cops are all great, its, The cgi is good(the only small problem with the movie) but the story, the setting, the idea itself...it's all amazing.
If you're going to watch an anime movie for the first time then I'd tell you to see this, its an absolute gem.

ive seen this and sprited away this is better, if your reading this i sugest you stop reading and start buying

Howls Moving Castle in my opinion, is the greatest animated movie since Snow White (and my personal favourite Pinocchio) - its that good! I have been an avid fan of Japanese animation (or anime) for over 10 years now. During that time i have had the pleasure to watch some extra-ordinary films by outstanding dircectors; Akira by Katshuhiro Otomo, Ghost in the Shell by Mamoru Oshii and Ninja scroll by Yoshiaki Kawarji (all of whom are more adult orientated), and then discovered the beauty and majesty of Studio Ghibli movies via the superb Spirited Away, and then Princess Mononoke, and though all the aforementioned are masterpieces in their own right, Hayao Miyazaki has totally outdone himself by directing what in my opinion, is his greatest masterwork till date, the aweinspiring, magical and dazzling Howls Moving Castle!

The story is very how should we say, 'unique'! The animation is simply sumptous and a beauty to behold! It is an unquestionable work of art! And what truly makes Howl stand out is this warm feeling that the viewer experiences when watching this fascinating story unfold! All the characters are very original, for instance, Calcifer the fire demon, and the heart of Howls Moving Castle is such a joy to hear and look at! Witty yet warm, as is Sophie our protagonist, both old and young. I must mention the English voice dubbing, all the actors do such an amazing job on it! In particular Christian Bale as the eccentric and somewhat narcissistic Howl! Emily Blunt as Sophie is such a joy to listen to, but the biggest compliment must be handed to Billy Crystal as Calcifer! He truly brings Calcifer alive! I loved his voice work on Monsters Inc. as the one-eyed 'cretin' Mike Wazowski!! And he truly excels here too!!!

The music also adds weight to the story. Indeed, what would a film be without good music? What would Jaws be and Star Wars be without their iconic music?

Their is also some deeper 'freudian' issues at play i feel in this movie. For example, Sophie's 'dream' as she approches Howls lair at night, and we see howls as a feathered beast in a dark cave. The scene towards the end when Sophie enters Howls dream is so poignant and beautifully realised, you learn of Howls demons (literally) and how he gave away his innocence, something Sophie still holds onto and believes in thus helping to lift Howls curse.

I have yet to read the original novel, but who ever came up with the design of Howls castle, esp. The portal door, whether author or director, is a genius! It is one of the joys and wonders of Howl! Also, the world that Howl inhabits. A kind of parallel world to our own.

And so, i must conclude my thoughts on this movie. In all honesty i can write a whole essay on this marvellous movie! There is so much to talk about!

It is a beautiful, elegaic, heart-warming tale of magic, friendship, love and wonder, you will view this movie with the eyes of a child; truly dazzled and awed by its majestic story. And i feel that no matter how many films Miyazaki san makes, it will be hard for him to top Howls moving Castle; his greatest achievement.

It is not hard to see why i love this beautiful, animated masterpiece! And you will too unless your heart has been turned to wood like ol' turnip head!