“Aftermath of Battles Without Honor and Humanity” (その後の仁義なき戦い), Original Release Japanese Movie Poster 1979 – STYLE A, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) S297

This is an original Japanese B2 poster printed in 1979 for the first Japanese theatrical release of Aftermath of Battles Without Honor and Humanity (その後の仁義なき戦い), directed by Eiichi Kudo and released by Toei. The film stars Jinpachi Nezu, Ryudo Uzaki, and Shigeru Matsuzaki, alongside an ensemble including Mieko Harada, Hiroki Matsukata, and Tsutomu Yamazaki.

Film background

Released in 1979, Aftermath of Battles Without Honor and Humanity brought a new director and leading cast to the celebrated Toei crime franchise. Following the earlier films directed by Kinji Fukasaku, Kudo’s contribution stands as a separate story within the wider Battles Without Honor and Humanity cycle. Originally conceived as the beginning of a new series, it ultimately remained a standalone entry. Film reference.

The film explores friendship, betrayal, and young men caught in the internal conflicts of organised crime. Personal loyalties are tested by the demands of the underworld, continuing the franchise’s bleak examination of violence and the fragility of honour.

Poster design

This Style A design features a striking ring of characters leaning into the frame from every edge, surrounding an open central space. Faces appear sideways and upside down, while guns, knives, and a sword project into the composition, creating the unsettling impression that the viewer is looking up into a gathering of armed gangsters.

The warm yellow and orange photography, expressive faces, and exaggerated perspective give the poster an immediate visual impact. Heavy black brush-calligraphy dominates the centre, accompanied by the contrasting green lettering of その後の, meaning “Aftermath” or “What followed.”

Across the upper centre, the red Japanese tagline challenges the very idea of friendship in this world: “Can there really be friends in a world like this?!” It neatly captures the tension between camaraderie and betrayal at the heart of the film.

A well-known design often seen reproduced on T-shirts, this image has an appeal extending beyond the film itself. Here, it appears in its original 1979 Japanese theatrical poster format.

About B2 posters

Japanese B2 posters, measuring approximately 51 × 73 cm, are a standard theatrical advertising format. Their generous proportions allow the photography, lettering, and distinctive composition of this design to be appreciated in full.

Rarity and significance

This original release poster brings together Toei yakuza cinema, late-1970s Japanese film advertising, and a recognisable design with a lasting presence in popular culture. It is an appealing piece for collectors of Eiichi Kudo, the Battles Without Honor and Humanity series, Japanese crime films, and vintage Japanese poster design.

Condition

Very Good+. Visible horizontal and vertical fold lines, with some surface creasing and wear along the folds. Please review the photos, including both front and back—they show the exact poster for sale.

It is 47 years old!

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.