Call of the Circus

Call of the Circus is a 1930 pre-Code film written by Maxine Alton and directed by Frank O'Connor. The film stars Francis X. Bushman and Ethel Clayton. The film is noted as silent screen idol Bushman's first talkie.

Plot

A retired clown tells a young woman about his life under the big top and his troubles with his wife. He falls for the young girl after rescuing her from peril, but she falls in love with a young man. Eventually he realizes his love for his wife and son, and the three return to the circus.

Starring

Francis X. Bushman as The Man
Ethel Clayton as The Woman
Joan Wyndham as The Girl
William C. Kirby as The Boy
Dorothy Gay as Circus Performer
Sunburnt Jim Wilson as The Shadow

Production

Bushman signed a contract with Pickwick Pictures in July 1929. After the film's release, Bushman sued O'Connor and his production company for back wages, and won a full judgment of $2,500.