“The Sting” (スティング), Original Japanese First Release Movie Poster 1974, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) K140
This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster printed in 1974 for the first Japanese release of The Sting, directed by George Roy Hill and starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford. The film originally premiered in the United States in December 1973 and was released in Japan in 1974 following its enormous international success.
Set in 1930s Chicago, The Sting reunited Newman and Redford after Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and became one of the defining caper films of the 1970s. The story follows two grifters executing an elaborate long con against a powerful crime boss, blending charm, period detail, ragtime music, and masterfully structured storytelling.
The film was a major critical and commercial triumph, winning 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director (George Roy Hill), and Best Original Screenplay. Its Scott Joplin–inspired soundtrack also became iconic, helping cement the film’s timeless appeal.
Poster design
This striking Japanese B2 features the celebrated illustrated artwork by Richard Amsel, whose painterly style became synonymous with 1970s Hollywood prestige cinema. Newman and Redford are depicted in warm, nostalgic tones, seated casually with money, cards, and gambling paraphernalia scattered around them — visually reinforcing the film’s con-artist theme.
The bold red border frames the central illustration in a Deco-inspired layout, echoing the film’s 1930s setting. Above the image, seven Oscar statuettes are displayed, highlighting the film’s Academy Award success. The large yellow Japanese title “スティング” anchors the lower section with strong visual impact, making this an exceptionally displayable and instantly recognisable design.
Japanese B2 posters for major American award-winning films of the 1970s are increasingly sought after, particularly examples with iconic Amsel artwork in strong colours such as this.
It is over 50 years old!
Condition
Very Good / Excellent. Please review the photos—they show the exact poster for sale.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
