The Kid Brother

About The Kid Brother

The Kid Brother is a classic silent romantic comedy film directed by Ted Wilde and J.A. Howe, released in 1927. The film’s innovative visual comedy and narrative storytelling set it apart during its time.

The plot revolves around Harold Hickory, the youngest son of Sheriff Jim Hickory, who is often overlooked due to his smaller physique and meek demeanor. When a travelling medicine show arrives in town, Harold falls for the troupe's attractive dancer Mary Powers. Harold's efforts to impress Mary often land him in comical situations. The film takes a dramatic turn when the Hickory family is swindled out of their money, and Harold must summon his inner courage to save the day and win Mary's heart.

Making / Production

The film was made by Pathé Exchange and produced by Harold Lloyd Corporation. The innovative direction of Ted Wilde and J.A. Howe, along with Harold Lloyd's unique comedic style, made this film a pioneering work in visual comedy.

Actors

• Harold Lloyd as Harold Hickory: The slender, glasses-wearing protagonist who displayed remarkable comedic timing and physicality throughout.
• Jobyna Ralston as Mary Powers: Mary is Harold's love interest in the film. Ralston's impressive performance brought intensity and charm to Mary's character.
• Walter James as Jim Hickory: Jim is the authoritative, tough Sheriff and Harold's father. James played this role with conviction and depth.
• Leo Willis as Sandoni: The antagonist in the film, who creates problems for Harold. Willis depicted Sandoni with the apt amount of sinister intensity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is known for several iconic scenes, including Harold Lloyd's "monkey scene," which was shot in a real tree with a real monkey.
• The Kid Brother is considered one of Harold Lloyd's best films, despite it being less known than his other works like 'Safety Last!'
• Despite being a silent film, it is known for its use of visual cues and body language to narrate the story and extract comedy.

Awards

Although 'The Kid Brother' did not receive any official awards, it is widely respected and loved by audiences and critics all over the world. It is often considered one of the finest works of Harold Lloyd.

Quotes

• "The trouble with you is you’re not tough enough."
• "What do you think I am? A worm?"
• "Success is not the result of making money; making money is the result of success."

Music, Soundtrack

• Riding The Goat - Carl Davis
• Walking The Plank - Robert Israel
• Saving The Day - Gaylord Carter