“Too Late the Hero” (燃える戦場), Original Japanese First-Release Movie Poster 1970, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) — T36

This is an original Japanese B2 poster printed in 1970 for the first Japanese theatrical release of Too Late the Hero, Robert Aldrich’s uncompromising Second World War drama. Released in Japan as 燃える戦場 (Moeru Senjō, “The Burning Battlefield”), the film stars Michael Caine, Cliff Robertson and Ken Takakura, with Henry Fonda in a supporting role.

Film background
Set on a Pacific island during the Second World War, the story follows an Allied patrol sent through hostile jungle to destroy a Japanese communications post. As the mission unravels, tensions within the group become as dangerous as the enemy pursuing them.

Following The Dirty Dozen, Aldrich again examines reluctant soldiers, flawed leadership and the uncertain boundary between courage and survival. Ken Takakura’s role as the Japanese commander gives the film a particularly strong connection to Japanese cinema, reflected in his prominent placement on this poster.

Poster design
A dramatic photographic montage places Michael Caine and Cliff Robertson above Takakura, surrounded by explosions, smoke and combat imagery. A machine gun cuts diagonally through the composition, while the tropical coastline along the bottom establishes the Pacific setting.

The enormous Japanese title 「燃える戦場」 dominates the lower half in vivid red lettering with deep black shadows. A small yellow English title emblem provides a sharp contrast, while turquoise cast names balance the fiery imagery above.

Across the top, the blunt tagline 「戦争！それは殺し合いだ！」—“War! It means killing one another!” captures the film’s harsh outlook. An imposing example of Japanese war-film advertising, with particular appeal for collectors of Aldrich, Caine and Takakura.

Condition
Very Good / Excellent. This poster was displayed at the time and another poster was affixed to the bottom edge - please see close up imagery provided. We have taken the condition into account when pricing. Once framed, this poster will display excellently.

Please review all photographs, including the detailed close-ups—they show the exact poster for sale.

It is over 56 years old!
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.