Howl’s Moving Castle

3 May 2025

In the Playhouse

Cinema

2004 | Dubbed in English | Japan | Animation | PG

Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli's cherished story of a teenage girl who finds her life thrown into turmoil when she is literally swept off her feet by a handsome, but mysterious, wizard named Howl.

Miyazaki’s most romantic film is just as breathtaking 20 years later.

Screen Rant

Useful information:

From Hayao Miyazaki, the creator of the Academy Award winning Spirited Away

Sophie, a quiet girl working in a hat shop, finds her life thrown into turmoil when she is literally swept off her feet by a handsome but mysterious wizard named Howl. The vain and vengeful Witch of the Waste, jealous of their friendship, puts a curse on Sophie and turns her into a 90-year-old woman.

On a quest to break the spell, Sophie climbs aboard Howl's magnificent moving castle and into a new life of wonder and adventure. But, as the true power of Howl's wizardry is revealed, Sophie finds herself fighting to protect them both from a dangerous war of sorcery that threatens their world.

Featuring the voice talents of Lauren Bacall, Christian Bale, Billy Crystal, Blythe Danner, Emily Mortimer, and Jean Simmons.

Presented by Sydney Opera House

Credits

Hayao Miyazaki
Director

Toshio Suzuki
Producer

Cast

Christian Bale
as Howl

Jean Simmons
as Sophie (old)

Emily Mortimer
as Sophie (young)

Lauren Bacall
as Witch of the Waste

Billy Crystal
as Calcifer

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