“In Harm’s Way” / 「危険な道」, Original Japanese Re-Release Movie Poster 1971, STB Tatekan Size (approximately 51 × 145 cm) T113

This is an original Japanese STB tatekan theatrical poster produced for the 1971 Japanese re-release of In Harm’s Way / 「危険な道」, Otto Preminger’s sweeping naval war drama starring John Wayne, Kirk Douglas and Patricia Neal.

Originally released in 1965, the film combines large-scale Pacific naval warfare with an unusually extensive examination of the personal lives, ambitions and responsibilities of its officers.

This Japanese design gives the naval action tremendous prominence, pairing a spectacular battle scene with a commanding portrait of John Wayne.

The STB tatekan format consists of two approximately B2-size sheets, displayed one above the other to create a tall composition measuring approximately 51 × 145 cm. Both sheets are included.

Film background

The story begins with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 and follows American naval personnel through the dangerous opening stages of the Pacific War.

John Wayne plays Captain Rockwell “Rock” Torrey, an experienced officer whose career comes under scrutiny after his cruiser is damaged during operations following the attack. Removed from active command, he must confront professional disappointment while recovering from his injuries.

During this period, Torrey develops a relationship with naval nurse Maggie Haynes, played by Patricia Neal, and reconnects with his estranged son, now serving as a young naval officer.

Kirk Douglas plays Commander Paul Eddington, whose personal turmoil introduces a darker strand into the story.

As Torrey receives another opportunity to command, the film brings together military rivalry, family relationships and the heavy responsibility of sending men into combat. These intersecting stories build towards a major naval confrontation in the South Pacific.

The film was produced and directed by Otto Preminger, with a screenplay by Wendell Mayes, adapted from James Bassett’s novel Harm’s Way.

The principal cast includes:

John Wayne
Kirk Douglas
Patricia Neal
Tom Tryon
Paula Prentiss
Brandon de Wilde
Dana Andrews
Henry Fonda
Burgess Meredith

The score was composed by Jerry Goldsmith, with black-and-white Panavision cinematography by Loyal Griggs.

Poster design

This impressive Japanese tatekan uses its extended height to present naval spectacle above a dramatic arrangement of star portraits.

The upper sheet is dominated by a turbulent blue sea viewed from the deck of a warship. Detailed gun mountings, railings, ammunition racks and helmeted crew members fill the foreground.

Long gun barrels project diagonally across the composition, directing the eye towards distant ships surrounded by orange explosions, black smoke and towering columns of spray.

The contrast between the densely detailed foreground machinery and the distant battle gives the scene considerable depth. Its scale makes particularly effective use of the tall two-sheet format.

The headline across the top reads:

「ハワイ真珠湾から南太平洋まで！壮烈な海戦スペクタクル！」

Translated:

“From Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, to the South Pacific! A spectacular naval battle epic!”

The lower sheet shifts the emphasis towards the cast. An enormous portrait of John Wayne, wearing a white naval cap and khaki uniform, dominates the centre and right side. His serious expression provides a strong visual anchor beneath the expansive battle scene.

A smaller portrait of Patricia Neal appears at the lower right, while Kirk Douglas is shown towards the lower left. Burning wreckage and additional shipboard imagery connect these portraits with the action above.

The Japanese title:

「危険な道」

is printed in exceptionally large, vivid red lettering across the upper portion of the lower sheet. Its rising diagonal arrangement gives the composition energy and ensures immediate recognition.

The original English title, “IN HARM’S WAY,” appears in red italic lettering near Patricia Neal’s portrait.

The bottom margin carries the distribution credit:

「パラマウント映画・C.I.C.配給」

Translated:

“Paramount Pictures — distributed by C.I.C.”

Together, the blue sea, fiery battle imagery, oversized red title and prominent Wayne portrait create a striking display with excellent wall presence.

Condition

Excellent condition. A highly attractive complete two-sheet example with strong colour, clear photographic detail and impressive overall presentation.

Reference: T113

Please review the photographs carefully, as they show the exact poster for sale.

This is an original Japanese theatrical poster from the film’s 1971 re-release campaign.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

It is now over 50 years old.

Certificate of Authenticity included.