“Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster” (ゴジラ・モスラ・キングギドラ 地球最大の決戦), Original Japanese Re-Release Movie Poster 1971, Toho Champion Festival, Speed Poster Size (c. 25.7 × 72.8 cm) R20

This is an original Japanese theatrical speed poster produced for the 1971 re-release of Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster, directed by Ishirō Honda, with special effects by Eiji Tsuburaya, produced and distributed by Toho.

Measuring approximately 25.7 × 72.8 cm, the design brings together Godzilla, Rodan, Mothra and King Ghidorah in a tightly arranged vertical composition, combining a golden-yellow background with vivid red and blue typography.

Film background

Originally released in Japan on 20 December 1964, the film introduced King Ghidorah and brought Godzilla, Rodan and Mothra together against an extraterrestrial threat. Their uneasy alliance helped establish Godzilla’s developing role as a defender of Earth.

For the winter Toho Champion Festival opening on 12 December 1971, the film returned in an abridged version under the revised title:

「ゴジラ・モスラ・キングギドラ 地球最大の決戦」
“Godzilla, Mothra, King Ghidorah: The Greatest Battle on Earth.”

The poster’s 1971 copyright imprint, revised title and 「ニュープリント」—“New Print” announcement identify this revival campaign. The printed credits name Honda, Tsuburaya, producer Tomoyuki Tanaka and screenwriter Shinichi Sekizawa.

Poster design

Rodan sweeps across the top, above King Ghidorah’s three heads and spreading wings. Godzilla occupies the middle left, while Mothra’s larval form anchors the foreground. Retouched red beams connect the opposing monsters, reinforcing the impression of an unfolding battle.

A bright blue vertical panel carries the monsters’ names in pale-yellow lettering. Beside it, the enormous crimson title 「地球最大の決戦」—“The Greatest Battle on Earth” descends through the composition, outlined in white.

Small labels identify each creature, while phonetic reading aids accompany the main title. The magenta promotional copy announces:

「宇宙の超怪獣が襲撃！ 地球を守るゴジラ ラドン・モスラの怪獣同盟！」
“A super-monster from space attacks! Godzilla, Rodan and Mothra form a monster alliance to defend Earth!”

Cultural significance

This poster connects Toho’s landmark 1960s monster filmmaking with its 1970s Champion Festival revivals, which introduced earlier adventures to new audiences. Its four-monster imagery and commanding vertical lettering make particularly effective use of the narrow speed-poster format.

Condition

Excellent+. The poster retains strong colour, clear lettering and detailed monster imagery. A horizontal centre fold, light handling creases and minor edge wear are visible. Please review the photographs—they show the exact poster for sale.

This is an original Japanese theatrical re-release poster from 1971.
It is not a reproduction or a modern reprint.

It is approximately 55 years old.

Certificate of Authenticity included.