“Rage” (激怒), Original Japanese First-Release Movie Poster 1973, George C. Scott / Richard Basehart, B2 Size (51.5 × 72.8 cm) — T31

This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster for the 1973 Japanese release of Rage, issued under the title 「激怒」 (Gekido). Originally released in America in 1972, this tense thriller stars George C. Scott, who also directed the film. Its Japanese release followed in June 1973. 

Film background

Marking George C. Scott’s feature-film directing debut, Rage follows Wyoming sheep rancher Dan Logan, whose camping trip with his young son ends in tragedy after accidental exposure to military nerve gas. As officials conceal the truth, Logan’s search for answers develops into a desperate confrontation with those responsible.

Inspired by the 1968 Dugway sheep incident, the film combines a personal revenge story with themes of military secrecy and institutional indifference. The supporting cast includes Richard Basehart, Martin Sheen, and Barnard Hughes, with music by Lalo Schifrin.

Poster design

This Japanese B2 features an explosive photographic montage, dominated by a large portrait of Scott wearing a white motorcycle helmet with a clear visor, his gun rising diagonally across the composition. Behind him, flames engulf the Chivington Research Laboratories, filling the upper half with intense orange, yellow, and black.

A helicopter enters from the upper left, while smaller scenes of Scott running, military personnel, and vehicles extend the action around the central portrait. Sharp diagonal framing directs the eye towards the enormous crimson Japanese title 「激怒」, whose jagged lettering gives the lower section exceptional visual force.

Across the top, the Japanese tagline appears in pale blue:

「彼はそれを殺人だと叫び　恐れを知らぬ巨大な軍団は
それを事故だといった……」

Which translates approximately as:

“He cried that it was murder; the mighty military machine, fearing nothing, called it an accident…”

The lower right carries the flame-topped English “RAGE” logo, Japanese cast and production credits, and Warner Bros. release information. Panavision / Deluxe Color lettering appears at the lower left, with the Eirin mark in the bottom-right corner.

Collector significance

An atmospheric example of 1970s Japanese thriller advertising, combining a commanding star portrait with bold typography and dramatic action imagery. Particularly appealing to collectors of George C. Scott, American conspiracy and revenge thrillers, and Japanese theatrical poster design.

Condition

Excellent. The poster retains strong colour, rich contrast, and excellent overall display appeal. Light handling creases and gentle paper undulation are visible, with minor marks on the reverse. The principal imagery and large red title remain especially striking.

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

Japanese B2 format: approximately 51.5 × 72.8 cm.
Stock code: T31.

This poster is an original Japanese theatrical B2 from the 1973 first-release campaign.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

It is over 50 years old.

Certificate of Authenticity included.