A sultry Elizabeth Taylor smoulders on this extremely rare and seductive Japanese B2 poster for the original release of MGM's Cat on a Hot Tin Roof in Japan. In a legendary pairing, Paul Newman co-starred as apathetic husband Brick opposite Taylor as wife Maggie "the Cat" in the classic film adaptation of Tennessee Williams' 1955 Pulitzer Prize-winning play. Driven to drink by the death of his best friend Skipper, Brick continues to coldly reject the passionate advances of the feline Maggie, until the couple's dysfunctional marriage problems come to a head during Brick's father's 65th birthday celebrations in Mississippi. Although the adaptation was well-received by both critics and audiences, becoming the third highest-grossing film of 1958, many - including author Tennessee Williams - were unhappy with the removal of the homosexual themes present in the original play. Nevertheless, the film was recognised with six Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, Best Director (Richard Brooks), Best Actor (Newman) and Best Actress (Taylor). Taylor's fine performance as the titular "Cat" is all the more notable considering her beloved husband Mike Todd was tragically killed in a plane crash just over a week into the production.

Condition

Very Good to Excellent (B+ to A-)

Unfolded, conservation backed on linen. Backing has closed and diminished a small one inch horizontal puncture tear to upper right portion through bed post. Negligible edge wear. Image and colours otherwise excellent.