This is an original Japanese horizontal poster / promotional pamphlet printed in 1967 for the first Japanese release of You Only Live Twice, the fifth James Bond film, directed by Lewis Gilbert and starring Sean Connery as 007. Adapted from Ian Fleming’s novel and largely set and shot in Japan, the film features Blofeld’s volcano rocket base, ninja commandos and one of Ken Adam’s most spectacular production designs, becoming a key title in cementing Bond’s global popularity.
Design
This striking wide‑format piece plays to the film’s Japanese setting and grand scale. The left panel is a full‑bleed colour photograph of Blofeld’s cavernous volcano lair: the retractable lake roof, launch platform and monorails are all visible, ringed by technicians and guards in vivid uniforms. The Japanese title 「007は二度死ぬ」 and main credits are printed over the rock wall, giving the image the feel of an illustrated set‑plan for SPECTRE’s operations.
The right panel switches to bold illustration: a painted portrait of Sean Connery as Bond, Walther pistol raised, is set against rhythmic teal and purple stripes. English typography reads “SEAN CONNERY IS JAMES BOND ‘YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE’”, with a small silhouetted Bond holding a crash helmet at the far right. The combination of photographic spectacle and graphic portraiture neatly captures both the film’s futuristic excess and its cool 1960s spy iconography.
Condition
Very Good. The piece lies flat and will frame beautifully. Please review the photos; they show the exact item for sale.
This is an original Japanese promotional poster / pamphlet from the 1967 first release.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
It is over 55 years old.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
