“Princess Mononoke” (もののけ姫), Original First Release Japanese Movie Poster 1997, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) J73C G/VG

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1997 for the first release of Princess Mononoke / 「もののけ姫」, written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, animated by Studio Ghibli, and distributed in Japan by Toho.

A highly desirable original Ghibli theatrical poster, this example is a theatre-used copy and shows visible signs of display and handling. The condition has been carefully taken into account when pricing. Once framed, it will still display very well.

Film background
Released in Japan in 1997, Princess Mononoke is one of Studio Ghibli’s defining masterpieces. Set in a mythic version of Japan’s late Muromachi period, the film follows Ashitaka, a young Emishi prince cursed after an encounter with a raging boar god. His journey west brings him into the conflict between the ancient forest gods and the humans of Irontown, led by Lady Eboshi.

At the centre of the story is San, a human girl raised by wolves, who fights fiercely to defend the forest. The film’s Japanese title refers to mononoke — supernatural spirits or presences — and the story explores anger, survival, nature, industry, violence, and coexistence with extraordinary moral complexity.

Poster design
This first-release B2 features one of the most iconic images from the original Japanese campaign. San stands bloodied and defiant, holding her dagger, with her mask at her side. Behind her, the great white wolf Moro fills the composition, staring directly outward with immense force.

The vertical tagline on the left reads:

「生きろ。」
“Live.”

The lower section is anchored by the bold red title 「もののけ姫」, paired with the blue credit block 「宮崎駿 監督作品」 — “A film directed by Hayao Miyazaki.”

The design is minimal, severe, and deeply powerful: San’s red war paint, Moro’s pale presence, and the dark forest background create one of the most recognisable and sought-after Studio Ghibli poster images.

Condition
Very good condition. This is a theatre-used example and shows signs of original display and handling.

Visible condition points include edge wear, creasing, surface marks, small areas of paper lift / abrasion, and scuffing, including noticeable wear in the image area around Moro. The reverse also shows age-related handling wear and paper disturbance, as shown in the detailed photographs.

Despite these signs of use, the poster retains strong colour, excellent graphic impact, and a highly presentable overall appearance. Once framed, it will display very well. The condition has been taken into account when pricing.

Please review the photographs carefully, as they show the exact poster for sale.

This is an original 1997 Japanese theatrical poster.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.