I wanted to examine the Mise-en-scene of Miyazaki’s Howls Moving Castle. I think this film really utilises environments and scene settings, as well as i’s characters to emphasise the messages within the film.
In “Howl’s Moving Castle,” Miyazaki creates a fantastical world where magic seamlessly intertwines with the mundane. The intricate and imaginative set designs, particularly the moving castle itself, reflect the director’s commitment to crafting a rich and immersive environment. The vibrant colour palette, ranging from lush greens to deep purples, adds to the film’s dreamlike atmosphere. These rich hues indicate magic throughout the film- Sophie, who is initially considered a normal human, is later revealed to be magical herself. Her hat shop mirrors that of Howl’s bedroom through the use of colour and detail, linking them narratively as a form of foreshadowing. You can imagine Fibonacci’s spiral fitting identically in these two shots- one of Howl’s room, the other Sophie’s hat shop.
The moving castle itself showcases a whimsical mix of architectural styles, created from a hodgepodge of scraps and pieces of buildings. Its unpredictable and ever-changing structure mirrors Howl’s mystifying personality, creating a visual metaphor for the character’s complex nature. The castle becomes a character in its own right, with Calcifer, the fire demon acting as the castle’s literal heart. The castle from the outside appears as a dangerous living creature, complete with a sharp-toothed mouth. Inside, however, is shown to be a warm and bustling home for the characters in the film, a reflection of Howl’s presentation as a cool and aloof wizard in contrast to his sweet but somewhat eccentric personality. The castle appears as an impenetrable fortress, but Sophie in actuality gains access rather easily.
Beyond the castle, the film features lush and enchanting landscapes, from the vibrant flower meadows to the huge royal greenhouse. These environments are rich in detail, with each frame teeming with life and colour. Miyazaki’s commitment to environmental storytelling is evident as the settings evolve alongside the characters, reflecting the emotional journey of the protagonists. Miyazaki is known throughout his works (Such as Nausicaa or Princess Mononoke) for using the natural world to demonstrate mysticism. Throughout Howl’s Moving Castle, Miyazaki utilises scenes of abundant nature frequently surrounding the most magically powerful characters within the film, including Sophie, while most of the other characters exist within a bustling city.