“Star Wars” / 「スター・ウォーズ」, Original Japanese Re-Release Movie Poster 1982, Japanese-Language Version, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) E299
This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1982 for the Japanese re-release of Star Wars / 「スター・ウォーズ」, later retitled Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope.
One of the most important science-fiction films ever made, Star Wars transformed modern cinema through its mythic storytelling, groundbreaking visual effects, iconic characters, and John Williams’ unforgettable score. This Japanese re-release poster is especially desirable, featuring the classic heroic artwork, bold Japanese presentation, and explicit promotion of the film’s Academy Award success.
Film background
Originally released in 1977, Star Wars follows Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and R2-D2 as they battle Darth Vader and the Galactic Empire’s planet-destroying Death Star.
Written and directed by George Lucas, the film became a worldwide phenomenon and launched one of the most influential franchises in cinema history. It won seven Academy Awards, including awards for Best Visual Effects, Best Original Score, Best Film Editing, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Sound, and a Special Achievement Award for sound effects.
This 1982 Japanese campaign marked a special theatrical return of the film in Japan, presented here as the Japanese-language version / 「日本語版」.
Poster design
The poster features the celebrated Tom Jung-style Star Wars composition, adapted for the Japanese theatrical campaign. Luke Skywalker stands in a heroic pose with his lightsaber raised, while Princess Leia stands below him, and the shadowy helmet of Darth Vader looms across the star-filled background.
At upper left, the Death Star appears beside a formation of X-wing fighters, while the famous opening line is printed across the top:
“A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…”
The lower white panel carries the bold blue STAR WARS logo, with the red katakana title 「スター・ウォーズ」 beneath. The orange 「日本語版」 mark clearly identifies this as the Japanese-language version. At lower left, the gold Oscar statuette and red Japanese text promote the film’s major Academy Award success, reinforcing the film’s international prestige.
The overall design is classic, iconic, and highly collectible, combining one of cinema’s most famous poster images with distinctive Japanese release typography.
Release note
This poster was printed for the film’s 1982 Japanese theatrical re-release campaign.
It is an original period Japanese cinema poster, not a later reproduction or commercial reprint.
Condition
Very good condition. A strong and highly displayable example, with attractive colour, clean central artwork, sharp title treatment, and excellent overall visual impact. Light signs of age and handling are visible, consistent with an original theatrical poster of this period.
Please review the photographs carefully, as they show the exact poster for sale, including the reverse.
This is an original 1982 Japanese theatrical poster.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
It is now over 40 years old.
Certificate of Authenticity included.

