The Red Mark (1928)

Great atmosphere and wonderful images provided by director James Cruze make up for a somewhat confusing story line in which von Seyffertitz, a penal colony executioner, is about to have Glass, a young pickpocket - and his rival for the affections of the beautiful Quartaro - beheaded at the guillotine. Seconds before the execution can take place, however, von Seyffertitz recognizes a red birth mark on Glass' neck, identifying him as his long lost son, and sets the youth free to find happiness with Quartaro.