“Spartacus” (スパルタカス), 1968 Re‑Release Japanese STB Tatekan Poster, STB Size (c. 51 × 145 cm) ZA448

This is an original Japanese STB tatekan (two‑panel standing) poster printed in 1968 for a Japanese theatrical re-release of Stanley Kubrick’s epic Spartacus (スパルタカス).

Film background

Starring Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons, Charles Laughton and Tony Curtis, Spartacus tells the story of a slave who leads a massive revolt against the Roman Empire. Combining large‑scale battles with pointed political themes about freedom, power and conscience, the film became one of the defining historical epics of its era. It won four Academy Awards and played a key role in establishing Kubrick’s reputation as a major filmmaker.

Poster design

The Japanese STB delivers a richly layered portrait of the film’s characters and scope. At the top, an illustrated Kirk Douglas in profile looks determinedly into the distance, while Jean Simmons cradles a child beside him, adding emotional weight. Below, Olivier, Curtis and other key players are arranged around the gigantic vertical red Japanese title “スパルタカス”, rendered like a monumental stone pillar that runs the full height of the poster. A sweeping cavalry charge at the bottom hints at the film’s large‑scale battle sequences, while the stylised English Spartacus logo appears in the upper corner. The result is a bold, operatic design that feels every bit as grand as the film itself.

Rarity and condition

Japanese STB posters for Hollywood roadshow epics were printed in modest quantities and often subjected to heavy display. Surviving Spartacus STBs are consequently hard to locate, especially in collectable condition.

This poster is in excellent condition for its age. The colours remain vivid and the artwork is striking, with light fold wear, a few minor surface scuffs and some small edge and corner creases typical of original cinema use. When framed, it presents as an impressive centrepiece. Please inspect the photos carefully for a detailed view of condition.

It is over 57 years old.

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.