It was based on a book by David Wagoner, and was the feature film directorial debut of Caleb Deschanel.

The quest for a missing wallet (pick-pocketed by Danny) leads to the comeuppance of the crooked mayor, and separately of his vindictive and out-of-control son.

The cast includes two members of the 1930s troupe the Dead End Kids: Gabriel Dell and Huntz Hall.

The film received mixed to poor reviews, with critics generally praising the performances, but finding the script elements unfocused.

Vincent Canby of the New York Times noted that the finished film "represents a lot more talent than is ever demonstrated on the screen.