The Kid
Director: Charles Chaplin
Actors: Charles Chaplin, Edna Purviance, Jackie Coogan
PlotA destitute woman, overwhelmed by her circumstances, abandons her newborn in a wealthy neighborhood, hoping someone will take the infant in. Instead, the baby ends up in the care of a kindly but struggling tramp who initially tries to rid himself of the child. Gradually, he grows attached and decides to raise the kid as his own. Despite their meager means, the pair form a tight bond, with the tramp teaching the boy to survive through small-time, often mischievous schemes. Their life is a constant struggle, punctuated by moments of joy and humor derived from their inventive survival tactics.
Unbeknownst to them, the child's birth mother, having achieved success and wealth, begins searching for her lost son. Meanwhile, the authorities catch wind of the unconventional living arrangements between the tramp and the boy, threatening to separate them. The intertwined fate of these characters unfolds amid a backdrop of societal challenges and personal transformations. The story is a blend of heartwarming interactions and comedic escapades, all underscored by themes of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between a guardian and a child.
Writers: Charles Chaplin
Release Date: 06 Feb 1921
Runtime: 68 min
Rating: Passed
Country: United States
Language: None, English
Home Video Reviews
The Kid's enduring charm shines through in Criterion's standout Blu-ray, showcasing an impressive 4K restoration and valuable supplements; highly recommended.
Read our review of The Kid Blu-ray to find out more