“Superman II” (スーパーマンII／冒険篇), Original Release Japanese Movie Poster 1981 (film 1980), B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) E292
This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster produced for the first Japanese cinema release of Richard Lester’s Superman II (スーパーマンII／冒険篇), starring Christopher Reeve as Superman / Clark Kent. The film was produced in 1980, and it first opened theatrically in Japan on 27 June 1981, distributed domestically by Warner Bros.
The sequel dramatically expands the story of the original Superman, as a nuclear explosion inadvertently releases General Zod, Ursa and Non, three Kryptonian criminals imprisoned in the Phantom Zone. Possessing the same extraordinary powers as Superman, the trio arrive on Earth and begin imposing their will upon humanity, while Clark’s relationship with Lois Lane forces him to confront the conflict between his human desires and his responsibilities as Superman. The film stars Christopher Reeve, Margot Kidder, Gene Hackman, Terence Stamp, Sarah Douglas and Jack O’Halloran.
Poster design
A spectacular Japanese first-release design centred on Christopher Reeve’s Superman flying directly towards the viewer against an extraordinary fiery orange sky. Beneath him stretches New York Harbor, with the Statue of Liberty and the World Trade Center towers clearly visible on the skyline, creating a remarkable period image of early-1980s New York.
In the foreground, the three Kryptonian villains—General Zod, Ursa and Non—are shown from behind, apparently launching themselves across the water towards Superman. The composition immediately communicates the film’s central premise: for the first time, Superman must confront enemies possessing powers equal to his own.
Across the top, the Japanese campaign copy reads 「いよいよ最高潮！惑星クリプトンの3悪人を迎え、史上初の空中戦が始まる！」 — approximately “At last, the climax! The three villains from planet Krypton arrive, and the first aerial battle in history begins!”
The extraordinary chrome-effect スーパーマンII title dominates the upper section, with 冒険篇 (“Adventure Chapter”) beneath it. The vivid orange-and-blue palette, New York skyline and confrontational arrangement of Superman and the Kryptonian villains make this one of the most memorable Japanese designs for the Christopher Reeve series.
It is over 45 years old!
Condition
Very Good+ / Excellent. The poster retains superb colour saturation, with the fiery orange sky, deep blue water and metallic title treatment remaining exceptionally vivid. There are only very minor signs of age and handling. Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
