“The Yellow Rolls-Royce” / 「黄色いロールス・ロイス」, Original Japanese Movie Poster 1965, STB Tatekan Size (approximately 51 × 145 cm) T129

This is an original Japanese STB tatekan theatrical poster from the 1965 Japanese release campaign for The Yellow Rolls-Royce / 「黄色いロールス・ロイス」, Anthony Asquith’s lavish anthology drama featuring an exceptional international cast.

Originally released in 1964, the film reached Japanese cinemas through MGM in February 1965. Its three stories combine romance, comedy and wartime adventure, linked by the changing ownership of a distinctive yellow Rolls-Royce.

The STB tatekan format comprises two approximately B2-size sheets, displayed one above the other to create a striking vertical composition measuring approximately 51 × 145 cm. 

Film background

The film follows a yellow Rolls-Royce as it passes between owners, becoming the setting for three contrasting stories of love and loyalty.

In early-1930s England, the Marquess of Frinton, played by Rex Harrison, purchases the car as an anniversary present for his wife, Eloise, played by Jeanne Moreau. Beneath their polished aristocratic surroundings, their marriage conceals an uncomfortable romantic complication.

The second episode moves to Italy, where American gangster Paolo Maltese, played by George C. Scott, travels with his girlfriend Mae, played by Shirley MacLaine. Her encounter with a handsome young photographer, Stefano, played by Alain Delon, introduces an unexpected emotional attachment.

Finally, in 1941, wealthy American traveller Gerda Millett, played by Ingrid Bergman, becomes involved with Yugoslav resistance fighter Davich, played by Omar Sharif. Their journey transforms the luxury vehicle into an unlikely participant in the upheaval of war.

The film was directed by Anthony Asquith, written by Terence Rattigan, and produced by Anatole de Grunwald, with cinematography by Jack Hildyard.

The principal cast includes:

Rex Harrison
Jeanne Moreau
Shirley MacLaine
George C. Scott
Ingrid Bergman
Omar Sharif
Alain Delon

The score was composed by Riz Ortolani, whose song “Forget Domani”, written with Norman Newell, became one of the film’s best-known musical features.

Poster design

This elegant Japanese design makes excellent use of the tatekan’s extended proportions, arranging the film’s seven principal stars across a soft pink background scattered with small decorative floral motifs.

At the upper left, Rex Harrison appears in formal dress beneath an oversized pale-grey top hat. Beside him, a large portrait of Ingrid Bergman provides a warm, composed focal point.

Below them, George C. Scott, wearing a white suit and broad-brimmed hat, looks across the composition. Shirley MacLaine’s smiling portrait, framed by delicate feather-like decoration, leads the eye towards the meeting point of the two sheets.

The lower section continues with Omar Sharif’s intense, moustached portrait and Jeanne Moreau looking back over her bare shoulder. A particularly prominent, smiling image of Alain Delon anchors the bottom of the design.

The enormous Japanese title:

「黄色いロールス・ロイス」

runs vertically down the left in vivid red lettering. Its strong geometric forms contrast beautifully with the pastel background and photographic portraits.

The accompanying promotional line reads:

「世界のトップスターを駆使して空前の話題を呼ぶ愛の豪華巨篇！」

Translated:

“A lavish romantic epic featuring the world’s top stars and creating an unprecedented sensation!”

Near the bottom, a small romantic vignette depicts an embracing couple, while an illustration of the yellow Rolls-Royce with its black roof supplies the connecting motif of the film.

The orange English title, “The Yellow Rolls-Royce,” appears above the car. Multicoloured 「総天然色」 lettering advertises the colour presentation, alongside the Panavision credit.

The MGM lion emblem appears at the upper right, completing an appealing example of Japanese cinema advertising from the mid-1960s.

Condition

Very Good+ / Excellent.

An attractive complete two-sheet example with vivid red title lettering, clear portrait detail and strong overall display impact.

The main imagery remains highly attractive. Once framed, this poster will display very well.

Reference: T129.

Please review the photographs carefully, as they show the exact poster for sale.

This is an original Japanese theatrical poster from the film’s 1965 Japanese release campaign.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

It is now over 61 years old.

Certificate of Authenticity included.