“Akira Kurosawa Festival” (黒澤明フェスティバル), Original Japanese Retrospective Poster 1971, Meitetsu Hall / Max Factor Advertisement, B2 Size (51.5 × 72.8 cm) — ZA720

This is an original Japanese B2 poster printed for the 1971 Akira Kurosawa Festival at Meitetsu Hall in Nagoya, held from 3 to 28 March. An exceptionally striking design, it places the director himself at the centre of his cinematic world, with a film camera and production equipment reflected in his trademark sunglasses.

The poster also advertises a special appearance by Kurosawa on 6 March, giving it a direct connection to an event attended by the filmmaker. A prominent Max Factor advertising panel completes the design along the bottom.

The festival

The retrospective presented a broad selection of Kurosawa’s work, from his 1943 directorial debut, Sanshiro Sugata, through to Dodes’ka-den, his first colour feature, released in 1970.

The red introductory text describes a gathering of celebrated works by “the world’s master, Akira Kurosawa.” The programme brought together period adventures and contemporary dramas, demonstrating the range of his filmmaking across nearly three decades.

Following the opening programme and special event, the main double bills were:

• 7–11 March: Ikiru and Rashomon.

• 12–16 March: Seven Samurai and Stray Dog.

• 17–21 March: Red Beard and Yojimbo.

• 22–28 March: Dodes’ka-den and High and Low.

The entry for 6 March announces 「黒澤監督来名挨拶」, meaning “Director Kurosawa visits Nagoya and gives a greeting.” It also advertises screenings of Ikiru, Red Beard and Dodes’ka-den.

Poster design

An enormous, warmly toned photographic portrait of Akira Kurosawa fills almost the entire sheet. His familiar cap and thick-framed sunglasses make him instantly recognisable, while his upward gaze gives the image a thoughtful, commanding presence.

The most memorable detail is the filmmaking equipment reflected in both lenses. It creates a compelling visual expression of the director’s vision: the apparatus through which he makes his films is held within the glasses through which he observes the world.

Smaller character images are arranged across the lower portion of the portrait, bringing figures from his films into the composition. At the right, a red-tinted production photograph shows Kurosawa seated beside a camera crew. Together, these images connect the filmmaker, the practical work of directing and the characters that emerged from his imagination.

Red Japanese lettering stands out against the subdued photographic tones, with the festival dates, screening schedule and Meitetsu Hall name grouped beneath the inset photograph.

Max Factor advertising tie-in

The full-width black panel along the bottom carries the bold English wording:

“NEW LIFE for LIPS”
“BY MAX FACTOR”

The accompanying Japanese copy reads:

「輝き。歓び。だいたんな彩りと——」
“Radiance. Joy. And bold colour—”

This period cosmetics advertisement adds a distinctive commercial element to the festival design and firmly places the poster within the visual culture of early-1970s Japan.

An outstanding display piece for collectors of Akira Kurosawa, Japanese cinema, photographic portraiture and vintage advertising.

Condition

Excellent+ condition. The portrait retains clear photographic detail, with strong red lettering and a bold black advertising panel.

Please review all photographs, including the front and reverse, as they show the exact poster for sale.

Japanese B2 format: approximately 51.5 × 72.8 cm.
Stock code: ZA720.

Printed in 1971—now approximately 55 years old.

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.