“The Hidden Fortress” (隠し砦の三悪人) — Framed original Japanese first release pamphlet-poster for Kurosawa’s 1958 Toho adventure classic — Size c. 37 × 52 cm • GA5
This is an original Japanese pamphlet-poster from the first release of The Hidden Fortress (1958), directed by Akira Kurosawa. It is authentic vintage Japanese cinema paper—not a reproduction or a reprint—and is now over 67 years old.
We have now framed this piece with a clean matt border (mount) in a modern black frame, creating a strong, gallery-style presentation that suits the widescreen artwork beautifully. This size can be displayed anywhere: ideal for an office, a home cinema room, or as a standout gift for family, a friend… or yourself.
Size (unframed paper, approx.):
• Single original Japanese pamphlet-poster: c. 37 × 52 cm (approx. 14.57 × 20.47 in)
• Framed presentation included (sold framed as shown)
Why this matters
The Hidden Fortress (1958) – The Film That Inspired Star Wars. Akira Kurosawa’s classic jidaigeki adventure is widely celebrated as one of the key cinematic influences on George Lucas’ Star Wars. Lucas drew inspiration from Kurosawa’s storytelling technique—especially the use of lowly characters’ perspectives (often compared to the function of C‑3PO and R2‑D2)—as well as elements of the plot structure that later echoed through the saga, including aspects that shaped The Phantom Menace.
The film follows two hapless peasants who unknowingly help a disguised general (Toshiro Mifune) and a princess (Misa Uehara) cross enemy lines with hidden gold. It’s an essential watch for Star Wars fans and lovers of epic adventure cinema—and owning original first-release Japanese paper is a direct physical connection to that moment in film history.
About this piece
Format: one original Japanese first-release pamphlet-poster, professionally framed for display.
• Original first release Japanese issue for The Hidden Fortress (1958)
• Presented in a smart black frame with a crisp matt border (mount)
• Certificate of Authenticity included
• Sold framed as shown — ready to display immediately
Design & iconography
A bold, cinematic widescreen composition featuring the film’s iconic duo: the intense, sword-raised general (Mifune) set against a dramatic mountainous landscape, balanced by the princess (Uehara) standing poised and defiant. Strong studio-era Japanese typography and Toho branding elements give it an unmistakably authentic 1950s release feel. The larger format provides real wall presence while still remaining easy to place in a home or office.
Translations of the main captions
Main title: 「隠し砦の三悪人」 — “The Hidden Fortress” (literal sense: “The Three Villains of the Hidden Fortress”)
Studio name (as seen in large characters): 「東宝」 — “Toho”
Rarity & significance
Original Japanese first-release paper for Kurosawa titles is consistently sought after, and The Hidden Fortress is especially desirable due to its enduring popularity and its massive influence on modern blockbuster storytelling. Larger-format, display-ready Japanese pamphlet-posters like this are far less common than later reproductions—making this a genuine collector-grade piece of cinema history.
Condition
Excellent condition. Please refer to the imagery (both front and back) as this is the exact poster that is for sale. Light age-related handling marks may be present consistent with genuine vintage paper, but the piece remains clean, vibrant, and highly displayable—especially in its current framed presentation.
Details
Country: Japan
Year of issue: 1958 (first release)
Film: The Hidden Fortress (隠し砦の三悪人)
Director: Akira Kurosawa
Starring: Toshiro Mifune, Misa Uehara
Size (unframed paper, approx.): c. 37 × 52 cm (approx. 14.57 × 20.47 in)
Printing: Original 1958 issue — not a reproduction / not a reprint
Authentication: COA included
Internal ref: GA5
