This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1973 for the Toho re-release of Son of Godzilla (ゴジラの息子, 1967). A beloved, offbeat chapter of the Showa era, the film shifts the series into a bright “monster-island” adventure—introducing Minilla (Godzilla’s son) and delivering some of the most distinctive creature imagery of the late 1960s Toho cycle.
Film background
Originally released in 1967, Son of Godzilla is set on a remote tropical island where scientists and unexpected intruders collide with a nightmare ecosystem of giant creatures. The film is famous for expanding “Monsterland”-style worldbuilding: Godzilla is no longer only a force of destruction, but also a strange, protective presence—teaching Minilla how to survive (and how to weaponise that unmistakable atomic breath). The adversaries here are pure Toho imagination: Kamacuras (giant mantises) and Kumonga (a colossal spider), creating a creature-feature tone that is equal parts danger, spectacle, and Showa charm.
Poster design
This is classic Toho monster-theatre impact, with a wonderfully kinetic “island battle” layout. Godzilla unleashes a blazing orange atomic beam across the centre, while Minilla fires his signature smoke-ring breath—a brilliant, instantly recognisable visual that exists almost nowhere else in the franchise.
In the foreground, the insect and arachnid threats are rendered with real menace: Kamacuras lunging in from the left and Kumonga sprawling across the lower frame. Behind them, the island setting is established with rocky peaks, aircraft, and science-outpost imagery, giving the composition that perfect blend of pulp adventure and kaiju chaos. The bold title 「ゴジラの息子」 anchors the bottom in deep red, with 「怪獣島の決戦」 (“Decisive Battle on Monster Island”) above—an irresistible era-specific promise of action.
Rarity and condition
This particular example is exceptional: unused cinema dead-stock, sourced directly from the remaining inventory of a theatre that has since closed. Because it was never displayed, the presentation is clean, crisp, and refined, with striking “gallery wall” impact—especially in a design that balances saturated colour with large areas of pale space. Dead-stock Toho re-release B2s from this period—particularly in such fresh, display-ready condition—are increasingly difficult to find.
Condition
Excellent, close to Near Mint (Unused “Dead Stock”). Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale.
It is over 53 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
