"Yojimbo", Original First Re-Release Japanese Movie Poster 1967, Exceedingly Rare, STB Size 20x57" (51x145cm) N99

This exceptional Japanese original first re-release poster for Yojimbo is an incredibly rare find, especially in the STB tatekan format. Featuring dynamic artwork that captures the intense presence of Toshiro Mifune as the masterless samurai Sanjuro, this design is highly sought after by collectors worldwide. As one of Akira Kurosawa’s most celebrated films, memorabilia of this calibre is almost never seen—this is the first time we have ever encountered this exact format and artwork.

Yojimbo was released and produced by Toho on April 25, 1961. It received highly positive reviews and, over the years, has become widely regarded as one of Kurosawa’s greatest achievements, with Empire magazine listing it among the greatest films ever made. 

The story follows a wandering rōnin who manipulates two rival gangs in a lawless town—a plot so influential that it inspired numerous remakes and homages, most famously Sergio Leone’s A Fistful of Dollars (1964). Leone’s film was an unauthorised remake, prompting Toho and Kurosawa to sue for copyright infringement. Kurosawa won the lawsuit, securing 15% of worldwide receipts and distribution rights in parts of the Far East. Remarkably, Kurosawa earned more from the settlement than from Yojimbo itself.

Behind the scenes, the collaboration between Kurosawa and Mifune was as disciplined as it was intense. After Kurosawa scolded Mifune for arriving late to set one morning, Mifune arrived every day thereafter at 6:00 AM—fully in makeup and costume—ready to film. This work ethic contributed to the film’s precision and enduring impact.

This nearly five-foot-tall STB tatekan poster vividly depicts dramatic moments from the film, from tense sword fights to close-up portraits, encapsulating Kurosawa’s cinematic style. Unlike the more common Japanese B2 posters, the STB format had very limited print runs, making surviving examples for legendary titles like Yojimbo exceptionally rare. For serious collectors of Japanese cinema memorabilia, this is a true grail piece.

This poster is in excellent condition. Please refer to the imagery (both front and back) as this is the exact poster that is for sale.

It is over 58 years old!

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.