“Flash Gordon” / 「フラッシュ・ゴードン」, Original First Release Japanese Movie Poster 1980, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) ZA783

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1980 for the first Japanese release of Flash Gordon / 「フラッシュ・ゴードン」, the spectacular space-opera adventure produced by Dino De Laurentiis and directed by Mike Hodges.

Based on the classic comic-strip hero created by Alex Raymond, Flash Gordon has become one of the great cult science-fiction films of its era, celebrated for its extravagant production design, vivid colour, comic-book energy, and legendary soundtrack by Queen.

Film background
Released in 1980, Flash Gordon follows American football hero Flash Gordon, who is swept into an interplanetary struggle after Earth comes under attack from the tyrannical Emperor Ming the Merciless. Together with Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov, Flash travels to the planet Mongo, where he must unite rival kingdoms and defeat Ming before Earth is destroyed.

The film stars Sam J. Jones as Flash Gordon, Melody Anderson as Dale Arden, Max von Sydow as Ming, Ornella Muti as Princess Aura, and Timothy Dalton as Prince Barin. Though initially met with a mixed critical response, it has since become a major cult favourite, admired for its operatic camp, theatrical performances, lavish sets, and the unmistakable Queen rock soundtrack.

Poster design
This Japanese B2 poster is a superbly dynamic space-fantasy composition. At the centre, Flash Gordon stands heroically with ray gun drawn, wearing his iconic red-and-black costume. Around him unfolds the world of Mongo: a gleaming futuristic city floats in the background, Hawkmen soar across the upper right, alien landscapes stretch behind him, and Princess Aura and Dale Arden appear in elaborate fantasy costumes at lower right.

The left-side vertical Japanese copy reads:

「『フラッシュ』GO！地球の危機だ!! 数千のホークマン〈鷹人間〉が飛び交うスーパー・スペースアドベンチャー」
roughly, “Flash, go! Earth is in danger! A super space adventure where thousands of Hawkmen fly across the sky.”

The lower section is anchored by the huge red Japanese title 「フラッシュ・ゴードン」, printed in bold block lettering. The overall design is bright, heroic, and gloriously theatrical — perfectly suited to the film’s blend of comic-book adventure, science fiction, fantasy, and rock-opera spectacle.

Release note
This poster was printed for the film’s original 1980 Japanese theatrical release.

It is an original period Japanese cinema poster, not a later reproduction or commercial reprint.

Condition
Excellent condition. A very attractive example, with strong colour, sharp artwork, bold red title typography, and excellent overall display impact.

Please review the photograph carefully, as it shows the exact poster for sale.

This is an original 1980 Japanese theatrical poster.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

It is now over 40 years old.

Certificate of Authenticity included.