The Cultural Infusion that is Howl's Moving Castle

     Howl's Moving Castle is Japanese genre heavily influenced by European culture. This intentional influence is what makes it appealing to an American audience. We know that in Japanese culture women are deducted down to being emotional and non functional. Sophie, although she was the damsel in distress, embraced her spell the best she could and in the end helped Howl and their family as much as they helped her. The stereotypical ending was also influenced by European culture. The happy ending of love and family is desired by American audiences and our need for all loose ends to be tied up in a pretty bow. Miyazaki however puts a spin on it because it is somewhat confusing and Sophie does not end up with prince, as she would in an American film. The true loves kiss is over the top stereotypical of American culture. We see a lot of political references to Japanese history. The war being depicted is reminiscent of the Tokyo bombings. The contrast between the country side we see at the beginning and then the polluted, industrialized, over populated town is important to note. Also, the race up the stairs, which I learned is also Japanese culture. Both Miyazaki's political and social views of both cultures are clear throughout this movie. Overall, I think the combination of cultures works for the film. They are both blended nicely and the movie is enjoyable for many different audiences.