“Pinocchio” (ピノキオ), Original Japanese Movie Poster 1959 Re-release, Daiei, B2 Format (c. 51 × 73 cm) P232

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster for the 1959 Japanese-language re-release of Walt Disney’s Pinocchio. Distributed by Daiei, this colourful sheet celebrates the introduction of the film’s first Japanese theatrical dub, making it a particularly appealing piece of early Disney advertising in Japan.

Originally released in America in 1940, Pinocchio was Disney’s second full-length animated feature. Adapted from Carlo Collodi’s story, it follows a wooden puppet brought to life by the Blue Fairy, whose ambition to become a real boy depends on learning courage, honesty and compassion. Accompanied by Jiminy Cricket, he encounters temptation, deception and danger before discovering the importance of putting others first.

The film received Academy Awards for its original score and “When You Wish Upon a Star,” the song that became closely associated with Disney itself. Its expressive character animation and richly detailed settings remain central to its enduring appeal.

Following the film’s initial Japanese release in 1952, the 1959 dubbed presentation offered audiences the opportunity to hear its characters speaking and singing in Japanese. This distinction is central to the poster’s design: a prominent wooden signboard announces 「日本語版」—“Japanese-language version.” Its printed cast includes Ken Mitsuda, Saburō Bōya, Toshi Matsuda and Kiyokazu Sasaki, alongside the Dark Ducks and the Rhythm Sisters.

The artwork centres on an affectionate exchange between Pinocchio and Geppetto. Seated on a workbench, Pinocchio smiles with his gloved hands open, while Geppetto leans towards him, pointing a finger. Their bright clothing stands out against a softly shaded green background, giving the composition a welcoming, storybook atmosphere.

Below them, Honest John and Gideon introduce a mischievous counterpoint, while Jiminy Cricket appears immediately above the wood-grain cast panel. These supporting characters give the design an engaging sense of narrative without crowding its central scene.

The enormous Japanese title 「ピノキオ」 stretches across the top in pink-red lettering with pale yellow highlights. A dark blue heading identifies Walt Disney, the film’s full-colour animation and Daiei distribution. Printed endorsements beneath the title include selection by Japan’s Ministry of Education, reflecting the campaign’s appeal to family audiences.

The vertical promotional text reads:

「世界中のこどもの人気者ピノキオが 日本語でしゃべりまくり うたいまくる楽しい夢と、すばらしい冒険！」
“Pinocchio, beloved by children around the world, talks and sings in Japanese—a delightful world of dreams and wonderful adventures!”

Combining familiar Disney characters with distinctive Japanese lettering and a prominently advertised local voice cast, this is a characterful example for collectors of Disney animation, Pinocchio and early Japanese theatrical advertising.

Condition: Very Good+. Previously folded, with visible horizontal and vertical fold lines, associated creasing, handling wear and a small split (stabilised with archival tape on the verso) at the upper edge along the central fold. The front retains strong colour and clear illustration, with attractive overall presentation for a poster of this age. Once framed, it will display very well.

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

B2 format: approximately 51 × 73 cm.
Stock code: P232.

It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.

About Japanese B2 posters
Japanese B2 posters, typically measuring around 51 × 73 cm, have been widely used for theatrical advertising. Original examples preserve the artwork, typography and promotional language created for a film’s Japanese release campaign.