“Evil Spirits of Japan” (日本の悪霊), Original Japanese ATG First-Release Movie Poster 1970, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) M182

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster for the first release of Kazuo Kuroki’s Evil Spirits of Japan, which opened in Japan on 26 December 1970. Adapted by Yoshiyuki Fukuda from the novel by Kazumi Takahashi, the film was a collaboration between Nakajima Production and the Art Theatre Guild of Japan (ATG). The small ATG emblem at the lower right sits beside the printed credit 「日本ATG配給」, meaning “distributed by Japan ATG.”

Kei Satō plays both Murase, a yakuza with a past in radical politics, and Ochiai, a detective sent to a town in Gunma to investigate gang violence. When local gangsters mistake the detective for Murase, the two men exchange identities. For Ochiai, the switch offers an unexpected taste of freedom; for Murase, it opens the way to investigate a killing in his own past. Kuroki brings touches of comedy to this black-and-white crime film, with appearances by butoh dancer Tatsumi Hijikata and folk singer Nobuyasu Okabayashi.

The poster places Satō’s face beside the exposed blade of a partly drawn sword. Above him, a paper parasol opens across the pale background, its fine spokes broken by splashes of red. The Japanese title 「日本の悪霊」 descends diagonally in broad black brushstrokes, framing a lone female silhouette. A quieter detail rewards a closer look: beside Satō’s name, the small credit 「二役」 means “in two roles.”

Excellent condition overall, with light handling creases visible mainly on the reverse. The portrait and bold title lettering remain clear. Once framed, this poster will display excellently.

Please review the photographs, which show the exact poster offered.

Over 55 years old.
Not a reproduction or reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.