This is an original Japanese B2 movie poster printed in 1959 for the first Japanese release of Yasujirō Ozu’s Good Morning (お早よう), released by Shochiku. This is a cinema-used example and bears the highly desirable red “許可済証” (approval) stamp on the front—an authentic period detail that strongly supports original theatrical use.
Film background
Released in 1959, Good Morning is one of Ozu’s most beloved late works—an exquisitely observed, gently satirical portrait of post-war suburban Japan as television, consumer culture, and modern etiquette begin to reshape everyday life. Often described as deceptively light (and profoundly precise), the film’s humour and warmth conceal Ozu’s trademark formal rigor and humanistic insight, making it an essential cornerstone of Japanese cinema.
Poster design
A refined, mid-century Shochiku design executed in full colour (総天然色 / Agfacolor as noted on the poster), built around a poised interior still and anchored by sweeping green calligraphy for the title 「お早よう」. Across the top, the poster announces Ozu’s stature in bold, ceremonial typography—positioning the work as prestige cinema rather than mere entertainment.
Most notably, this copy features the original circular red approval stamp reading 「許可済証」, dated Showa 34 (34.7.1 – 34.7.31, i.e., July 1959) and marked 岩手県 (Iwate Prefecture)—a scarce surviving cinema-use hallmark rarely encountered so cleanly visible on the front.
Condition
Very Good, particularly for a cinema-used Japanese poster of this era. Original fold lines as issued, with light, age-consistent handling and scattered soft creasing. There is a small edge nick/tear to the upper margin (visible in the photos) and minor wear to extremities consistent with theatrical display and storage. The approval stamp remains strong and legible.
Verso shows expected age-toning, fold wear, and evidence of prior cinema handling, including a small tape remnant/patch at the lower edge and faint offset/ghosting from the printed front—typical for original-release Japanese sheets printed on thin paper stock. Overall, a well-preserved and highly presentable example of an exceptionally scarce original Ozu B2.
It is over 66 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
