“King Kong 2” (キングコング2), Original Japanese First-Release Nakazuri / B3 Poster 1986, Artwork by Noriyoshi Ohrai, B3 Size (c. 36 × 51 cm) M140A
This is an original Japanese B3 nakazuri poster printed in 1986 for the first Japanese release of King Kong 2 (キングコング2), released internationally as King Kong Lives. The film was promoted in Japan as a major 1987 New Year roadshow attraction, with the poster announcing its theatrical opening from 20 December.
This is a particularly desirable Japanese format: an original nakazuri / train-interior advertising poster, printed for high-visibility public display rather than ordinary cinema lobby use. It is especially collectible for its dramatic artwork by Noriyoshi Ohrai, one of Japan’s most celebrated film-poster illustrators.
Film background
Released in 1986, King Kong Lives is the sequel to the 1976 remake of King Kong. Directed by John Guillermin, the film follows the revived Kong after he is brought back through an experimental artificial-heart operation, only to encounter a female giant ape known as Lady Kong. The Japanese campaign presented the film as a large-scale monster spectacle, emphasising its special effects, military action, and the return of one of cinema’s most famous creatures.
In Japan, the film was marketed under the direct and powerful title キングコング2 — King Kong 2 — positioning it as a major sequel event for winter audiences.
Poster design
This Japanese B3 nakazuri features a striking Noriyoshi Ohrai illustration at centre. Kong dominates the composition, standing against a moonlit sky as helicopters, tanks, explosions, and military forces surround him. The design gives the image a dramatic, kaiju-like energy, perfectly suited to Japanese monster-film advertising.
The large red title キングコング2 stretches boldly across the lower portion, while the left side carries the English title King Kong 2 and promotional copy announcing:
「’87年・正月 世界は再びパニックになる！」
“New Year 1987 — the world will panic again!”
At upper right, the release information reads:
「12月20日（土）よりロードショー公開！」
“Roadshow release from Saturday, December 20!”
Smaller inset stills at lower left show scenes from the film, while the central illustration provides the main impact. The overall design is bold, cinematic, and unmistakably Japanese: part Hollywood sequel campaign, part Toho-style monster spectacle.
About the format
Japanese nakazuri posters were designed for display inside trains, usually above the windows or doors, where commuters would view them at close range. Because they were used in public transit advertising, they were often handled, mounted, removed, and discarded after short display periods.
As a result, original nakazuri posters are much harder to find than ordinary theatre posters, particularly in strong condition. This example is especially appealing because it combines the B3 train-advertising format, a major monster-movie title, and Noriyoshi Ohrai artwork.
Condition
Excellent condition. Please review the photos; they show the exact poster for sale.
This poster is an original Japanese first-release B3 nakazuri poster from the 1986 / 1987 New Year campaign.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
It is over 39 years old!
Certificate of Authenticity included.
