Welcome to The Best Movies I’ve Never Seen! This is the part of the blog where I work my way through 100 films I’ve never seen that are generally considered to be great. You’re invited to watch along with me if you can find a copy or find it streaming. So grab some popcorn and let’s get started!

The Kid

1921

Directed by Charlie Chaplin

In the early 1920s, the world of cinema was blessed with a genius known as Charlie Chaplin. A master of silent comedy, he took the audience on emotional rollercoasters with every film. Among his illustrious repertoire stands The Kid, a 1921 masterpiece that transcends time and generations, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of cinematic history.

The Kid opens with a heart-wrenching scene where an unwed mother, her face etched with sorrow, abandons her baby in an expensive automobile. A note, bearing the words “Please love and care for this orphan child,” is her only plea. Soon, the car and baby are stolen by two thieves, who eventually leave the infant in a cold, desolate alley. It’s here that we meet our beloved hero, The Tramp, played by none other than Chaplin himself.

Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character, an embodiment of resilience and compassion, stumbles upon the abandoned child. The story unfolds as he attempts to offload the responsibility of raising the child, but fate intervenes when he discovers the heartfelt note. With a touching blend of humor and heart, The Tramp takes the baby boy, names him John, and creates a makeshift home in his humble abode.

As five years pass, we witness the loving bond that grows between The Kid and The Tramp. They may have little money, but their hearts are rich in love. Their source of income is a delightful ruse – The Kid throws stones at windows, only for The Tramp to repair them as a glazier, providing for their modest life.

The narrative takes an unexpected turn when the Mother, now a wealthy actress who engages in charity work, unknowingly crosses paths with her long-lost son and The Tramp. This chance encounter sets off a series of events, leading to a heartwarming and unforgettable reunion.

The Kid explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between a surrogate father and a child. The film takes us through moments of humor, sentimentality, and Chaplin’s signature physical comedy. The fight scene between The Kid and a local boy, as well as the subsequent confrontation with the “Big Brother,” is both hilarious and poignant.

As the story unfolds, we witness the complexity of human emotions, as the Mother, played brilliantly by Edna Purviance, discovers her lost child and the note she left years ago. Her character evolves from a mother who had to make a painful choice to a woman who finds redemption and reconciliation.

The film’s climax is an emotional tour de force, as the Mother is reunited with her child, and The Tramp, now a fugitive, searches frantically for the missing boy. The tension builds, and the audience is on the edge of their seats as the story races towards its resolution.

Chaplin’s artistry in The Kid is undeniable. His ability to make us laugh and cry within the same frame is a testament to his unparalleled talent. As the film concludes, we are treated to a dream sequence where The Tramp finds himself in a surreal world of angels and devils, underscoring the power of dreams and imagination, a recurring theme in Chaplin’s work.

The Kid invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of life, the choices we make, and the enduring power of love. The film’s timeless message continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the universality of human emotions.

The Kid is a masterpiece that showcases Chaplin’s storytelling prowess, acting skills, and his ability to touch our hearts. It’s a film that invites you to share your thoughts and emotions. So, what did you think of The Kid? Did it tug at your heartstrings, make you laugh, or leave you pondering the power of love and redemption? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s celebrate this cinematic gem together.