“Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” (猿の惑星・征服), Original Release Japanese Movie Poster 1972, B3 Size (37 × 53 cm) ZA1186

This is an original Japanese B3 theatrical poster printed in 1972 for the first Japanese release of Conquest of the Planet of the Apes, the fourth film in the original Planet of the Apes cycle. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, the film stars Roddy McDowall, Don Murray, Ricardo Montalbán, Natalie Trundy, Severn Darden, and Hari Rhodes.

Film background

Released in 1972, Conquest of the Planet of the Apes is one of the most politically charged and visually memorable entries in the original Apes series. Set in a dystopian near-future where apes have been reduced to servitude, the film follows Caesar, the son of Cornelius and Zira, as he witnesses the brutality of human society and ultimately leads an uprising that reshapes the destiny of the planet. Darker and more confrontational than many studio science-fiction films of its time, it remains one of the key titles in the franchise and a favourite among collectors of original Apes material.

Poster design

This is a bold and highly graphic Japanese design. The composition is dominated by a large image of Caesar in the centre, set against a blazing yellow-red sunburst and surrounded by riot scenes, armed apes, police lines, and images of social unrest that perfectly capture the film’s revolutionary energy. The huge orange-and-red Japanese title 猿の惑星・征服 has tremendous impact and gives the sheet a strong country-of-origin identity distinct from its American counterparts.

What makes this piece especially appealing is the way it distils the film into one charged visual statement: uprising, conflict, and the rise of Caesar. It has exactly the dramatic intensity that collectors look for in vintage Japanese science-fiction paper from the early 1970s.

A further point of interest is the fully printed reverse. Rather than being blank, the back carries extensive Japanese text, cast and staff information, and editorial-style promotional material. That makes this not only an attractive display poster from the front, but also a fascinating original campaign document from the film’s first Japanese release.

Condition

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

It is over 54 years old!

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.