Summary
HowlPendragon,from the masterfully animated and beautifully written film,Howl’s Moving Castle,isone of anime’s most admired characters, with a charming personality, dashing good looks, and amazing character development. Through Hayao Miyazaki’s talented writing, the hero truly comes to life and instantly captures viewers' hearts with his charisma and multifaceted personality.
The cosplayeryujayreedhas posted a video on Reddit featuring their incredible take on the popular Studio Ghibli hero. The short clip begins with the cosplayer’s normal appearance, but quickly transitions into an astoundingly accurate replica of Howl’s signature look.
The cosplayer dons a long-sleeved button-up white blouse, as well as a pink and blue diamond patterned sweater, which is arguablythe most memorable aspect of Howl’s daily outfit.Their hair is black to match Howl’s in the latter half of the film, and his trademark jewelry is on display: green gemstone earrings and a blue gemstone pendant necklace.
This Truly Magical Take on Howl Pendragon’s Iconic Look Is Breathtaking
From the Soft Lighting to the Glistening Gemstones on the Jewelry, Every Part of This Look Is Mesmerizing
The soft glow of orange lighting in the videomakes the cosplay appear even more magical, causing the gems on the jewelry to glisten and sparkle. The cosplayer wears a confident, slightly mischievous expression that perfectly aligns with Howl’s demeanor in the film. Overall, the look is very elegant and whimsical, capturing the essence of Howl Pendragon perfectly. One interesting detail that sets this cosplay apart from others depicting the same character, is that yujayreed opted for a black wig and not a blond one. Howl begins the film blond, but dyes his hair black during the film, explaining this wig choice.
Interestingly, Howl’s hair is naturally black, as revealed in a scene from his past. It is rarer to see Howl cosplays with this darker hair color, but it definitely authentically depicts the hero, ashe chose to leave his hair its natural shade at the end of the film. Howl started out with an overconfident persona he put on to mask his insecurity, but gradually began revealing his real self to Sophie, embracing his true identity by the end of the movie. Going back to his natural color seems to be a symbolic depiction of this newfound self-acceptance.
Howl’s Moving Castle: 12 Small Details Fans May Have Missed
From Sophie’s curse to the castle itself, Howl’s Moving Castle is full of small details that can be hard for fans to catch on a first viewing.
The Cosplay Also Reveals the Importance of Self-Acceptance
Self-love Is an Integral Part of Howl’s Journey in the Film, and Is Revealed Through the Cosplay as Well
By choosing this hair color, the cosplayer proves their in-depth understanding of the film and its themes, displayinga version of Howl who has wholeheartedly welcomed self-loveinto his life. As Howl cast aside his arrogant facade andbegan to love himself and Sophiemore deeply, he became a much happier, and even more powerful, character. His journey in the film is inspiring and the animation and music are undeniably gorgeous, making itone of Miyazaki’s best by far. ThisHowl Pendragoncosplay certainly brings this Studio Ghibli hero to life, portraying the admirable character exactly as he appeared inHowl’s Moving Castle.
Howl’s Moving Castle
Cast
Howl’s Moving Castle, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, follows Sophie, a young milliner transformed into an elderly woman by a witch’s curse. She becomes involved with the enigmatic wizard Howl, who is resisting participation in a war for the king, as she searches for a way to break the spell.
