“Seven Samurai” (七人の侍), Original Japanese First-Release Film Pamphlet 1954, Akira Kurosawa / Toshiro Mifune, approx. 18 × 25 cm G188

This is an original Japanese film pamphlet for Seven Samurai (Shichinin no Samurai), issued for the film’s 1954 Japanese release. The film opened in Japan on 26 April 1954.

The colourful cover features painted artwork of Toshiro Mifune as Kikuchiyo, raising his sword, with a woman beneath a broad umbrella and samurai gathered across the landscape. The pamphlet bears the Toho mark. The reverse features a period Morinaga Butter advertisement, giving the item an additional glimpse of contemporary Japanese print design.

Film background

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, the film follows a village’s effort to recruit samurai to protect its people from bandits. The screenplay was written by Kurosawa, Shinobu Hashimoto and Hideo Oguni. The cast includes Toshiro Mifune and Takashi Shimura.

Collector interest

An appealing original release-period piece for collectors of Akira Kurosawa, Toshiro Mifune, classic Japanese cinema and original Japanese film ephemera. Its illustrated cover and vintage advertisement on the reverse make both sides visually engaging.

Condition

Excellent condition. The cover artwork remains clear and colourful. There is light age toning and minor handling wear. Please review the photographs, which show the exact pamphlet.

This is an original 1954 Japanese release-period pamphlet, not a modern reproduction.

Certificate of Authenticity included.

G188