“Princess Mononoke” (もののけ姫), Original First Release Japanese Movie Poster 1997, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) G177 C
This is an original Japanese poster printed in 1997 for the first theatrical release of Princess Mononoke (もののけ姫), written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and animated by Studio Ghibli, with Japanese distribution by Toho. One of the most important animated films ever made, it is an epic, morally complex fantasy set in Japan’s late Muromachi period, where industrial expansion collides with ancient forest gods and the humans struggling to survive.
Film background
Princess Mononoke follows the young Emishi prince Ashitaka, cursed after a violent encounter with a boar god, as he journeys west in search of a cure and becomes entangled in a war between the spirits of the forest and the humans of Irontown, led by Lady Eboshi. At the heart of the conflict is San (Princess Mononoke), a human raised by wolves who fights to defend the forest. The term mononoke (物の怪) refers to supernatural beings or spirits that can possess and bring suffering—an idea central to the film’s themes of rage, balance, and the cost of progress. Released in Japan on 12 July 1997, the film was a massive critical and commercial success and played a major role in expanding Ghibli’s international influence.
Poster design
This first-release B2 features one of the most iconic key visuals from the original campaign: San standing bloodied and defiant, dagger in hand, with the great white wolf Moro looming behind her—an image that distils the film’s intensity and mythic power in a single frame. The calligraphic tagline 「生きろ。」 (“Live.”) runs down the left, while the bold red title 「もののけ姫」 anchors the bottom, paired with the blue credit block 「宮崎駿監督作品」. It’s minimal, dramatic, and exceptionally frame-friendly—one of the most sought-after Studio Ghibli theatrical poster designs.
Condition
This poster has some minor signs of use (light handling wear and fold/handling traces typical of cinema distribution). We have taken the condition into account when pricing. Please refer to the imagery (both front and back) as this is the exact poster that is for sale.
We also have the same title in an excellent / near mint condition for $325 USD.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
G177
