Review of Howl's Moving Castle

 The first site we see in "Howl's Moving Castle" is the castle itself, which looks as if it were hammered together in a shop class by wizards inspired by the lumbering , elephantine war machines in the "Empire Strikes Back" the castle is an amazing visual invention, a vast collection of turrets and annexes, protrusions and after thoughts, which makes its way across the landscape, like a lumbering, metal turtle.

Story opens with Sophie (voiced by Emily Mortimer)  sitting on the workbench, patiently sewing hats while a smoke belching train roars passed her window. When she ventures out, she is attacked by soldiers, but is saved by Howl (voiced by Christan Bale) who is also being chased by black creatures, of no shape or form. This interaction brings Sophie's existence to the attention of Howl's enemy, the Witch of the Wast, who fancys Howl for herself. And in a fit of jealous rage, the witch turns Sophie into a wrinkled old woman, now voiced by Jean Simmons. Leaving the house in shame and confusion, Sophie takes to the hills. After meeting and freeing a scarecrow, he takes Sophie to Howl's castle.  Howl is the real thing, a shape-shifter who sometimes becomes a winged bird of prey. So is his key assistant Calcifer (Billy Crystal), a fire demon who's job is to supply the castle's energy. Sophie also meets Howl's apprentice, Markl (Josh Hutcherson), and sets about appointing herself the castle's housekeeper and maid of all work.
                   
The plot deepens as Howl is summoned to serve both of the warring kingdoms. And Sophie try's to regain her youth.

 This would not be a standout film to see if you're looking for a great film to enjoy on the weekends or something like that. This is definitely it would be film if you are a strong Miyazaki fan. Miyazaki nevertheless is a  Master who, frame by frame creates animated  compositions of wonderment.