“Cobra” (コブラ), Original Release Japanese Movie Poster 1986, B2 Size (51 x 73cm) O195A

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1986 for the first Japanese release of Cobra (コブラ). Directed by George P. Cosmatos, the film stars Sylvester Stallone as Marion “Cobra” Cobretti, with Brigitte Nielsen, Reni Santoni, Andrew Robinson, and Brian Thompson.

Film background
Released in 1986, Cobra is one of the defining American action films of the mid-1980s. Written by and starring Sylvester Stallone, the film presents a stylised urban crime thriller built around an uncompromising anti-hero, violent criminal cult imagery, car chases, and sharp one-line dialogue. Produced at the height of Stallone’s international popularity, it remains a key cult title within 1980s action cinema.

Poster design
A strong alternate Japanese theatrical design, dominated by Sylvester Stallone as Cobra against a vivid red background. Stallone is shown frontally in sunglasses, cigarette in mouth, holding his distinctive weapon with laser sight, creating a direct and iconic action-star image. The minimal red composition gives the poster a cleaner, more character-focused impact than the explosion-heavy campaign style.

The upper Japanese tagline reads: 「悪党には死を！そいつが一番の薬だぜ！」 — roughly, “Death to villains! That’s the best medicine!” The centre section carries the small STALLONE COBRA mark above the large actor billing シルベスター・スタローン, while the bold red Japanese title コブラ dominates the lower middle of the design. The Warner Bros. and production credits along the bottom complete the original theatrical layout.

Rarity and significance
Original Japanese posters for Cobra are highly collectible among 1980s action-film collectors, particularly examples with strong standalone Stallone imagery. This design is especially effective as a display piece because it reduces the campaign to its essential elements: Stallone, red background, weapon, sunglasses, and the bold Japanese title treatment.

Condition
Excellent. Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale.

It is over 40 years old!

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.