This is an original Japanese B2 promotional poster printed in 2002 to advertise the domestic DVD release of “AKIRA – DTS sound edition” (priced at ¥3,800 [tax out], on sale 12.21). Produced for in-store display by retailers (not sold to the public), these campaign sheets were distributed in far smaller quantities than theatrical posters and are highly collectible today.
Film background
Katsuhiro Otomo’s AKIRA (1988) remains a defining landmark of cyberpunk animation—an adaptation of his manga that helped push Japanese animation into the global mainstream through its scale, hand-drawn detail, and uncompromising sci-fi storytelling. This 2002 Japanese DVD campaign emphasised upgraded home-viewing audio, promoting a DTS multi-channel mix as a key selling point.
Poster design
The composition is dominated by the monumental AKIRA logotype—black block letters slashed with the vivid scarlet 「アキラ」—set against a wide, clean field of typography-heavy release information (“DVD (DTS sound edition) … 12.21 ON SALE”). Below, Kaneda sits front-and-centre amid a heap of engines and wreckage, framed by Neo-Tokyo’s hard-edged skyline. Along the base, the bold red band highlights the campaign tie-in: 「AKIRAコミック誕生20周年記念仕様」 (20th anniversary commemorative specification for the AKIRA manga), with Pioneer branding anchoring the piece as a premium home-video push.
Condition
Light handling wear including scattered foxing/spotting to the margins, pinholes at the corners, and a small crease/edge tear at the top margin (please see photos). Once framed, this poster will display excellently. Please note that we have taken the condition into account when pricing.
Very Good . Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale.
It is over 23 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
