It’s hard to imagine a more peculiar pairing: a fugitive who has committed a terrible crime hides among circus performers by pretending to be someone without arms, and he develops feelings for an entertainer who recoils from physical contact. The premise suggests a destined connection, but what follows is a surprisingly thoughtful exploration of unreturned affection, presented as a study in irony. The man will go to …

The film centers around Joan Crawford portraying “Manon,” whose father, portrayed by Nick De Ruiz, runs a circus. She finds herself desired by both strongman “Malabar” (Norman Kerry) and the arm-less knife thrower "Alonzo" (Lon Chaney). It turns out that "Alonzo" is hiding something, and as events unfold, it becomes clear he’s a criminal using an elaborate deception to evade capture. Meanwhile, Manon grows increasing…