“Cobra” (コブラ), Original Release Japanese Movie Poster 1986, B2 Size (51 x 73cm) O196A

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, alongside Brigitte Nielsen, Reni Santoni, Andrew Robinson, and Brian Thompson.

Film background
Released in 1986, Cobra is one of the quintessential hard-edged American action films of the decade. Emerging at the height of Stallone’s 1980s stardom, the film distils the era’s appetite for violent urban thrillers into a sleek, highly stylised vehicle centred on a lone, uncompromising cop. With its neon-noir atmosphere, memorable one-liners, car chases, and explosive set pieces, Cobra has become an enduring cult favourite of 1980s action cinema.

Poster design
A superbly aggressive Japanese theatrical design, dominated by a blazing field of red and orange flames. The composition layers multiple images of Stallone: a huge, looming close-up in mirrored sunglasses fills the upper half, while a full-length Cobretti stands at centre holding a machine gun, framed by explosions. Supporting action vignettes — including a speeding black car, a motorcycle stunt, the villainous “Night Slasher” figure, and a smaller inset of Cobra with Ingrid — reinforce the film’s high-impact, collage-like campaign style.

The layout is especially effective for its bold Japanese typography. The actor billing シルベスター・スタローン runs prominently across the top, while the large red title コブラ dominates the lower centre. The vertical white copy at left promises a blazing summer spectacle, and the ULTRA•STEREO mark at upper left adds another period theatrical touch. Altogether, it is a vivid and highly collectible example of mid-1980s Japanese action-poster design.

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.