The Kid Rides Again Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Movie Overview: The Kid Rides Again
| Movie | The Kid Rides Again |
| Release Year | 1943 |
| Director | Sam Newfield |
| Genre | Western / Action / Adventure |
| Runtime | 55 minutes (55m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Kid Rides Again (1943) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Western.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Kid Rides Again are led by Buster Crabbe . The supporting cast, including Al St. John and Iris Meredith , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Kid Rides Again does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Western films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Kid Rides Again has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Western fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Kid Rides Again
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1943, The Kid Rides Again is a Western, Action, Adventure film directed by Sam Newfield, written by Fred Myton. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. As part of the Billy the Kid (Buster Crabbe) Collection, it provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Buster Crabbe as Billy the Kid.
Ending Explained: The Kid Rides Again
The Kid Rides Again Ending Explained: Billy the Kid has been wrongfully arrested for robbing a train. Directed by Sam Newfield, this 1943 western film stars Buster Crabbe (Billy the Kid), alongside Al St. John as Fuzzy Q. Jones, Iris Meredith as Joan Ainsley, Glenn Strange as Tom Slade. With a 6.2/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Kid Rides Again?
Billy the Kid has been wrongfully arrested for robbing a train. In order to prove his innocence, the Kid breaks out of jail and hits the trail to search for the real robbers. Along the way, he discovers that an outlaw band has been impersonating upstanding ranchers.
Sam Newfield's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Buster Crabbe (Billy the Kid)'s journey. In order to prove his innocence, the Kid breaks out of jail and hits the trail to search for the real robbers.
As part of the Billy the Kid (Buster Crabbe) Collection, the ending carries additional weight for fans following the franchise.
How Does Buster Crabbe (Billy the Kid)'s Story End?
- Buster Crabbe: Buster Crabbe's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Al St. John (Fuzzy Q. Jones): Al St. John's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Iris Meredith (Joan Ainsley): Iris Meredith's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Kid Rides Again Mean?
The Kid Rides Again's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Buster Crabbe may feel rushed. Sam Newfield's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
The Kid Rides Again Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Kid Rides Again Based on a True Story?
No, The Kid Rides Again is a work of fiction. While the western, action, adventure film directed by Sam Newfield and starring Buster Crabbe may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch The Kid Rides Again?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Western films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Buster Crabbe or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
At just 55 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Where to Watch The Kid Rides Again Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Best Westerns Ever Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoThe Kid Rides Again Parents Guide & Age Rating
1943 AdvisoryWondering about The Kid Rides Again age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Kid Rides Again (1943) is 55 minutes (55m). Directed by Sam Newfield, the film runs for 55 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.2/10, and global performance metrics, The Kid Rides Again is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1943 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Kid Rides Again worth watching?
The Kid Rides Again is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Western movies. It has a verified rating of 6.2/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Kid Rides Again parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Kid Rides Again identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Kid Rides Again (1943)?
The runtime of The Kid Rides Again (1943) is 55 minutes (approximately 0h 55m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with Buster Crabbe
View full filmography
Part of the Billy the Kid (Buster Crabbe) Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise