The ending pays homage to its fairy-tale roots in a beautiful way — with a little touch of humour that says so much about the story in general and all of the beautiful complicated relationships involved.
Howl: Now, I think we should all live happily ever after. It should be hair-raising.
After Howl's Disney Death, he only takes a few seconds to get his bearings...and then tries to get up, saying he has to rescue Sophie, clearly caring more about her than himself.
The film
Markl asking Sophie if she's going to leave, after her mother stops to visit.
Markl: That lady said she wanted you to live with her now. Sophie: Yes, well... at least she cared enough to visit. Markl: Don't leave, Sophie! *Hugs her apron* I love you. You have to stay! Sophie: Ah. I love you too, Markl. I'll stay.
The scene where Sophie begs Howl not to go and fight. What Howl tells her afterwards makes me say, "Dawwww."
Sophie: Let's run! Don't fight them, Howl! Howl: Sorry, I've had enough of running away, Sophie. Now I've got something I want to protect. It's you.
