Universal Ike Junior in the Shack Next Door

Ray Vernon, a hard-working young man who so far has been unable to catch the elusive dollar, is in love with Louise, the daughter of a wealthy broker. Ray is sternly told that when he possesses $5,000 as a start in life, his suit may be considered. Disheartened, Ray starts for town. On the corner adjoining the magnificent mansion of the broker is a vacant lot on which a sign stating that there are no restrictions as to buildings advertises the lot for sale. An idea strikes Ray. Making for the real estate office, he buys an option for thirty days on the lot. He then visits the Italian section and makes a proposition to Pedro, an Italian, to build him a small shack which he can have, providing he and his family will move into it. A few days later the wealthy broker's wife is astonished to see a rough wooden shack erected on the vacant lot, and Pedro and his numerous posterity its inhabitants.

Directed by —, Universal Ike Junior in the Shack Next Door leans on a strong ensemble — Bobby Ray, Louise Glaum, Ray Gallagher — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1914.