“The Poem of the Nemu Tree” (ねむの木の詩), Original Japanese Movie Poster 1974, ATG, Illustrated by Mariko Miyagi, B2 Size (51.5 × 72.8 cm) — G11

This is an original Japanese B2 poster printed for the 1974 release of The Poem of the Nemu Tree, directed by Mariko Miyagi and distributed by the Art Theatre Guild (ATG). Its beautiful illustration, painted by Miyagi herself, makes this a particularly personal example of Japanese independent film advertising.

The documentary centres on the children of Nemu no Ki Gakuen, the school and care facility Miyagi founded for children with disabilities. Drawing on their everyday experiences and relationships with the people caring for them, the film combines documentary observation with music and narration to convey their individual personalities and imaginative lives.

Miyagi’s involvement extended across production, direction, screenplay and music, as the poster prominently records. Cinematography is credited to Hiroshi Okazaki, while the performers are identified simply as “the children of Nemu no Ki Gakuen.” The printed Ministry of Education Special Selection endorsement appears beneath the title, alongside the distinctive ATG logo.

The artwork gives the poster its gentle, expressive character. Two elongated figures emerge from translucent washes of green: one stands facing the viewer, while the other appears in profile, holding yellow flowers close to their chest. Loose red blossoms, golden-yellow flowers and deeper green brushwork fill the lower section, creating a vivid contrast with the open, pale background.

The printed signature 「まり子」—“Mariko” appears near the bottom of the illustration. Above, the enormous red Japanese title stretches across almost the entire width, its rounded lettering echoing the flowing forms of the painting.

A short poem at the lower left describes a boy looking out over the sea, imagining himself running across the waves and wondering whether yesterday’s dream was real. Together, the verse and illustration convey the film’s attention to childhood, imagination and the emotional world of its subjects.

An especially appealing piece for collectors of ATG cinema, Japanese documentary film and illustrated movie posters.

Condition: Very Good / Excellent.

Previously folded, subsequently stored flat. Once framed, this poster will display excellently. 

Please review all photographs, including the front, reverse and detail images, as they show the exact poster for sale.

Japanese B2 size: approximately 51.5 × 72.8 cm.
Stock code: G11.

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.