“Children Hand in Hand” (手をつなぐ子ら), Original Japanese Movie Poster 1964, Daiei, B2 Size (51.5 × 72.8 cm) — T223

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1964 for Susumu Hani’s Children Hand in Hand, distributed by Daiei. Its expressive illustration, spacious composition and restrained colours make it a particularly distinctive example of Japanese film advertising from the period.

Based on Ichiji Tamura’s story, previously filmed by Hiroshi Inagaki in 1948, Hani’s adaptation draws on Mansaku Itami’s screenplay, with revisions by Hani and Yasuhiko Naitō. The film examines childhood, friendship and the experiences of a boy with an intellectual disability, approaching its subject through the relationships between pupils, teachers and families.

Hani’s sensitivity to children’s behaviour gives the film its human warmth. Its educational significance is reflected in the endorsements printed on the poster, including selection by Japan’s Ministry of Education and recommendations from several cultural and welfare organisations.

The artwork conveys this sympathetic approach through a deliberately simple, textured drawing. A tall adult figure stands on the right, head bowed and a bag hanging at his side. Nearby, two children hold hands, one raising an arm into the open space above them.

Slender utility poles recede into the distance, while small patches of blue suggest clouds. A dark strip of grass anchors the bottom edge. The contrast between the towering adult and the small, animated children gives the image both humour and poignancy.

The drawing’s rough, charcoal-like marks are complemented by the enormous Japanese title 「手をつなぐ子ら」, which stretches across the upper section in bold, irregular brush lettering. Muted rust-red credits identify director Susumu Hani and Daiei distribution, adding warmth to the predominantly black, cream and blue palette.

The artwork bears a small “fumito h” signature at the lower right and is attributed to illustrator Fumito Hirai (平井文人).

With its generous open space and beautifully economical imagery, the poster has the appeal of an illustrated print. It is an engaging piece for collectors of Susumu Hani, Japanese social drama and illustrated cinema posters of the 1960s.

Condition: Very Good / Excellent.

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

Japanese B2 size: approximately 51.5 × 72.8 cm.
Stock code: T223.

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.