This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1978 for the re-release of Akira Kurosawa’s The Hidden Fortress (隠し砦の三悪人)—one of Kurosawa’s most purely entertaining adventure films, and a cornerstone title for collectors of his post-war Toho-era work.
Film background
Originally released in 1958, The Hidden Fortress is Kurosawa at full narrative velocity: a fast, witty jidaigeki adventure that follows two bickering peasants who stumble into a high-stakes escape mission involving a fugitive princess, hidden gold, and a formidable general (played by Toshirō Mifune). Beyond its status as a Kurosawa classic, the film is famously associated with the DNA of modern blockbuster storytelling—George Lucas has openly acknowledged its influence on Star Wars, particularly the choice to frame events through the perspective of the “lowliest” characters (a structural echo many viewers recognise in C-3PO and R2-D2).
Poster design
A superb, cinema-forward composition built like a triple-bill of impact: the top half explodes with dynamic action imagery and bold red festival-style typography, while the stacked title blocks below spotlight the film’s core characters and dramatic tension. Mifune is front and centre—fierce, commanding, and instantly recognisable—balanced by the striking presence of Misa Uehara, with smaller vignette stills anchoring the narrative beats. The overall effect is loud, graphic, and unmistakably late-Showa in tone: a reissue poster designed to sell the spectacle, not merely decorate.
Condition
This poster is in good condition - it has some signs of use - we have taken this into account when pricing. Once framed, with a mount, this poster will display very well.. Please review the photos (front and back); they show the exact poster for sale.
It is over 46 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
