Ichirō Arishima

was a Japanese comedian and actor. Nicknamed "The Japanese Chaplin", he is best known outside Japan for his appearance as Tako, the promoter of King Kong in King Kong vs. Godzilla.

Biography Arishima's real name was Tadao Oshima. He became a household name in Japan after his move to Toho in 1955. At Toho he was featured in two very popular series, the "Wakadaishō series" ("Young Guy") movies starring Yūzō Kayama, and the "Shacho" ("Company President") movies featuring the Crazy Cats (クレージーキャッツ) comedy team. In addition to Ishirō Honda's King Kong vs. Godzilla, Arishima appeared in two Toho fantasy films directed by Senkichi Taniguchi: The Lost World of Sinbad (Daitozoku) (1963) and The Adventure of Taklamakan (Kiganjō no bōken) (1966). In 1972, he left Toho and a freelance actor.

Arishima's slight physical build contrasted well with the portly comedian Frankie Sakai, leading to their teaming in several comedies. He was also popular on several television shows, one of his last roles being "Kanō Gorōzaemon," the elderly advisor to the shogun in Abarenbō Shōgun.

Filmography Film

Television Taikoki (1965) as Sorori Shinzaemon Daichūshingura (1971) as Yahei Horibe Unmeitōge (1974) as Takuan Sōhō Taiyō ni Hoero! (1974 ep.85) (1977 ep.240) Naruto Hichō (1977–78) Hissatsu Shigotonin V (1985 ep.11)