The Kid Brother Blu-ray Review

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The Kid Brother" is a visual triumph, presented in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC at a 1080p resolution. The remarkable digital transfer was notably achieved in 4K resolution at the Packard Humanities Institute, utilizing a Scanity film scanner to work from Harold Lloyd Entertainment’s 35mm fine-grain print struck from the original camera negative. Subsequent restoration by L'Immagine Ritrovata in Bologna further refined the visuals to an exceptional standard. The clarity and depth of the transferred image are exemplary, providing rich detailing and visual nuance, especially during the film's darker indoor scenes.

The high-definition presentation demonstrates superb delineation and a meticulous balance in grayscale rendition. Black levels are impressively deep and inky, preserving necessary contrast without crushing details. The transfer handles spacing adeptly, avoiding any flattening of the image and maintaining immersive depth, particularly evident in dynamic sequences such as the iconic tree-climbing scene. Grading is done masterfully by Gregg Garvin at Roundabout Entertainment, ensuring color temperature remains consistent and the foundational elements of the film's imagery are preserved free from major blemishes or debris.

This release illustrates the importance of high-quality film restoration and underscores the significant efforts made to preserve classic cinema. The picture quality stands out for its immaculate condition, where every frame showcases a profound level of detail—from close-up facial textures of characters to intricate background elements. Grain is present as expected from the era but does not detract from the overall quality. Criterion's careful restoration work ensures that artifacts like stains, cuts, and large debris are minimized, offering viewers a visually pristine experience that honors the film’s historical value.

Criterion's new release of "The Kid Brother" offers viewers a choice between two meticulously restored scores, available in LPCM 2.0: Carl Davis' 1989 orchestral score, performed by the Luxembourg Radio Symphony Orchestra, and a late 1960s organ score by Harold Lloyd's favorite organist, Gaylord Carter. Both scores exhibit high fidelity with studio-quality presentation in lossless format, maintaining the integrity of the original recordings. While Carl Davis' score showcases superior dynamic nuances, balance, and depth, Gaylord Carter's organ accompaniment is distinguished by its authentic period feel and slightly more variable dynamics.

In comparison, the two short films included in the release, "Over the Fence" (1917) and "That's Him" (1918), feature Dolby Digital 5.1 tracks with music arranged and performed by Mark Herman. Although the primary audio format for "The Kid Brother" is mono, it effectively serves its purpose for a silent film relying heavily on musical accompaniment. Given the format and style of presentation, detailed aspects such as low-frequency extension and surround sound are not applicable, but the tracks undeniably deliver an impressive aural experience.

The Blu-ray extras of "The Kid Brother" deliver an exceptional variety of content that dives deep into the legacy of Harold Lloyd. Each feature provides valuable insights—from detailed discussions about his leading actresses to the intricate mechanics of his gags. The restored short films, interviews, and video programs are meticulously presented, allowing fans and film enthusiasts alike to appreciate Lloyd's work from multiple perspectives. Additionally, there is a fascinating featurette exploring Lloyd’s historic estate and a detailed audio commentary offering retrospective views. The curated stills showcase behind-the-scenes moments and rare outtakes, making this a comprehensive package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Short Films: Two early Harold Lloyd short films with music arranged and performed by Mark Herman.
• Preserving Harold: Archivist Dino Everett discusses challenges faced during film transfers.
• The Wurlitzer: Nathan Barr and Mark Herman: Examination of the vintage organ used for scoring.
• Harold’s Leading Ladies: Author Cari Beauchamp and Suzanne Lloyd discuss Lloyd's leading actresses.
• Anatomy of a Gag: Monkeyshoes: Critic David Cairns dissects the gags in The Kid Brother.
• Behind the Scenes Stills: Curated stills highlighting production, alternate gags, and outtakes.
• Greenacres: Overview of Lloyd's estate with archival footage and interviews.
• Harold Lloyd Interview: 1962 Dutch television interview discussing his career and stunts.
• Commentary: Audio commentary from experts and family members recorded in 2005.

Ted Wilde's The Kid Brother (1927) arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Criterion, presenting a classic Harold Lloyd experience with the expected meticulous attention to technical quality. Set in the western town of Hickoryville, Lloyd stars as Harold Hickory, the underdog youngest son of Sheriff Jim Hickory (Walter James). The film skillfully weaves Lloyd’s signature comedic precision into its narrative, where Harold's efforts to win the heart of Mary Powers (Jobyna Ralston) and restore his family’s honor lead to numerous slapstick sequences and elaborate gags. Key moments employ sophisticated camera tricks and stunt setups, underscoring Lloyd’s innovative approach to filmmaking.

This Criterion release enhances the visual and auditory experience with two distinct musical scores: one composed by Carl Davis in 1989 and performed by the Luxembourg Radio Symphony Orchestra, and a second recorded in the late 1960s featuring Lloyd’s preferred organist, Gaylord Carter. The inclusion of these scores, alongside early Lloyd shorts Over the Fence (1917) and That's Him (1918), enriches this release, providing a deeper historical context to Lloyd’s work.

The supporting cast performs remarkably well, contributing to the film’s persistent energy and high-paced action. Set pieces like Harold's tree-climbing scene and the climactic fight on an abandoned ship exhibit an ambitious blend of slapstick comedy with film noir lighting and inventive stunts. With its intricate gags, relentless energy, and engaging plot, The Kid Brother stands as a testament to Lloyd's enduring brilliance. Criterion's Blu-ray edition not only preserves but also celebrates this silent comedy gem, ensuring it remains impactful and entertaining for contemporary audiences.

Criterion's Blu-ray release of "The Kid Brother" demonstrates a meticulous dedication to preserving one of Harold Lloyd's quintessential performances in silent film history. The 4K restoration is nothing short of exceptional, presenting Lloyd’s classic comedy with a level of clarity and attention to detail that reinvigorates the viewing experience. The stunning remaster breathes new life into the elaborate stunts and comedic sequences that define the film, ensuring that every slapstick moment and gag shines as brightly as it did during its original release.

The accompanying audio options enhance the immersion, providing audiences with choices that cater to both purists and modern listeners alike. Additionally, the suite of bonus features is particularly noteworthy, offering a treasure trove of insights into Lloyd's creative process and the film's production. These extras serve not only as an educational resource but also as a captivating exploration of early cinema, further cementing the film's status as a must-own for both film enthusiasts and historians.

The precision of the work that Harold Lloyd did in his films is quite simply extraordinary, and as far as I am concerned it is where their brilliance comes from. Take a closer look at the big fight on the old ship between Lloyd's character and the baddie in "The Kid Brother," and you will quickly begin to realize that it is actually a giant piece of marvelously synchronized stunts and gags. Of course, all of this work is done with such brilliant casualty -- how's this for acting -- that while it lasts, it actually looks totally organic. This is acting talent that digital trickery can't and never will be able to replicate, folks. Criterion's new release of "The Kid Brother" is sourced from a great 4K restoration of the film and features an outstanding selection of bonus features. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.