Diana Wynne Jones publishes the fantasy novel 'Howl's Moving Castle', which later becomes the basis for the movie.
Studio Ghibli releases the animated movie 'Howl's Moving Castle', directed by Hayao Miyazaki, adapting the novel into a critically acclaimed film.
Sophie, a young hatter, is cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an elderly woman.
Sophie leaves home and encounters Howl's Moving Castle, where she meets the wizard Howl and the fire demon Calcifer.
Sophie makes a bargain with Calcifer, agreeing to break his contract with Howl in exchange for help to break her curse.
Howl is conscripted to fight in a war; he attempts to avoid the front lines while protecting Sophie and friends.
As Sophie gains confidence and breaks out of her shell, the effects of the curse begin to lighten, visibly reducing her old appearance.
It is revealed that Howl's heart was taken by the Witch of the Waste, which is connected to Calcifer's contract.
Sophie and Howl confront the Witch of the Waste and other enemies to save Howl's heart and break all curses.
With the curse broken, Sophie returns to her true form and Howl regains his heart; Calcifer is freed from the contract.
With all magic resolved, Howl's Moving Castle is restored peacefully and all characters look toward a hopeful future.
