It was successful and popular upon release[1][2] and today is considered by critics and fans to be one of Lloyd's best films, integrating elements of comedy, romance, drama, and character development.

Its storyline is an homage to a 1921 film called Tol'able David, although it is essentially a re-make of the 1924 Hal Roach feature, The White Sheep, starring Glenn Tryon.

Harold's sworn enemy, Hank Hooper, pelts him and accidentally starts a fire that consumes the medicine show wagon.

The next day is a town celebration, where Jim is supposed to turn over to a state official the funds raised by the residents to help build the dam.

Jim strongly suspects Farrell and Sandoni of being responsible, but Sam Hooper accuses him of the theft and refuses to let him go after them.

Eventually, Harold subdues Sandoni and races back to town with his prisoner and the money to save his father.

[4] As reported in the San Pedro Daily pilot, "The Harold Lloyd Motion Picture Corporation has purchased the old ship to take part In some comedy.

"[4] Due to contract problems with another studio, director Lewis Milestone left the production after having helmed a majority of the film in an uncredited capacity.

[5][a] A restored version of The Kid Brother with a new score by Carl Davis was prepared by Kevin Brownlow and David Gill in the early 1990s.