This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster for the 1966 first Japanese release of Le Bambole, also known internationally as The Dolls. Distributed in Japan by NIC, this Italian anthology comedy brings together four celebrated actresses: Gina Lollobrigida, Monica Vitti, Virna Lisi and Elke Sommer.
Produced in 1965, the film comprises four stories directed by Dino Risi, Luigi Comencini, Franco Rossi and Mauro Bolognini. Each explores a different romantic predicament, finding comedy in interrupted intimacy, the search for an ideal partner, marital frustration and elaborate attempts at seduction. The ensemble also includes Nino Manfredi and Jean Sorel, complementing the four leading performances.
The poster presents its stars through a playful arrangement of photographic cutouts and decorative oval frames. Gina Lollobrigida dominates the centre, seated with her legs crossed in a dramatic black gown with leaf-shaped cutouts and a sweeping, open skirt. Her direct gaze and the sculptural silhouette of the dress give the composition its principal focal point.
Around her, the three framed portraits introduce the other leading actresses. Virna Lisi holds a red telephone receiver at the lower left; Elke Sommer appears in teal lingerie at the upper right; and Monica Vitti rests her face against her hand below. Ornamental black borders evoke dressing-table mirrors, while individually styled Roman-letter names reinforce the sense of a glamorous ensemble.
Smaller scenes—including two men seated together and a couple on a motorcycle—add comic movement between the portraits. Against the pale background, these varied images remain clearly separated, allowing the design to feel lively without overwhelming its central figure.
The enormous magenta Japanese title stretches across the top, balanced by the exuberant, multicoloured “bambole!” lettering sweeping along the bottom. The blue promotional line reads:
「ヨーロッパ4大女優が異性獲得のスゴいテクニックを公開！」
“Four great European actresses reveal their amazing techniques for winning over the opposite sex!”
A stylish example of Japanese publicity for 1960s European comedy, with particular appeal for collectors of Lollobrigida, Vitti, Lisi, Sommer and mid-century film poster design.
Condition: Excellent.
Please review all photographs, including the front and reverse, as they show the exact poster for sale.
Japanese B2 format: approximately 51 × 73 cm.
Stock code: T105.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
About Japanese B2 posters
Japanese B2 posters typically measure approximately 51 × 73 cm and were produced for theatrical display. Their distinctive combinations of photography, illustration, typography and locally written promotional copy offer a fascinating record of how films were presented to Japanese audiences.
