“Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro” (ルパン三世 カリオストロの城), Original Release Japanese Movie Poster 1979, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) ZA1124
This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1979 for the first release of Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro (ルパン三世 カリオストロの城), the beloved animated feature directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Long regarded as one of the finest entries in the entire Lupin III franchise, the film has become a cornerstone of Japanese animation history and an essential title for collectors of anime cinema.
Film background
Released in 1979, The Castle of Cagliostro follows master thief Lupin III as he pursues a mystery involving counterfeit money, a hidden treasure, and a young woman imprisoned within the vast fortress-like castle of Cagliostro. Alongside Lupin are familiar series figures including Jigen, Goemon, Fujiko, and Inspector Zenigata, all set within a thrilling adventure full of chases, comic timing, romance, and elaborate set pieces.
For many viewers, this film occupies a special place not only within Lupin III, but within the wider history of anime. It is celebrated for its extraordinary pacing, warmth, charm, and visual invention, and is often treated as one of the key early works in Miyazaki’s emergence as a major director.
Poster design
This is a superb and instantly recognisable original release design. The composition places Lupin and Clarisse prominently in the foreground, with the vast castle itself rising behind them amid destruction and chaos. Around them appear the principal supporting characters in action, including Jigen, Goemon, Fujiko, and Zenigata, all arranged in a dramatic adventure tableau that perfectly captures the film’s mixture of danger, wit, and high-energy spectacle.
The bold red-and-gold Japanese title across the lower section gives the poster tremendous visual force, while the deep blue evening sky and illuminated castle architecture create a memorable sense of scale and atmosphere. It is exactly the sort of classic late-1970s anime theatrical design that collectors prize: vivid, cinematic, and full of narrative excitement.
Condition
Very Good. Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale. The poster presents strongly overall, with rich colour and very good display appeal. The reverse shows signs of prior display and storage, including old tape remnants and light wear consistent with an authentic vintage theatrical poster from this period. Nothing materially detracts from the poster’s overall front presentation.
We have taken the condition into account when pricing this poster. Once framed, this poster will display very well.
It is over 47 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
