Graft (1931)

Aspiring journalist Dusty is determined to make a name for himself with a big scoop. When a corrupt politician fears exposure from his former mistress, Pearl, he orders the murder of the District Attorney and kidnaps Pearl. Dusty stumbles upon the murder scene and falsely accuses Constance, the reform candidate's daughter, of the crime. After his story is published, he is fired from the newspaper. Determined to clear Constance's name and rescue Pearl, Dusty tracks down the kidnappers to a yacht where he engages in a fierce battle and captures the leader, Terry. With the help of the police, Pearl is freed and Dusty is able to get back to the newspaper in time to give them his exclusive story. He not only gets his job back, but also wins Constance's love.