He Who Gets Slapped (1924)

Up-and-coming scientist Paul Benedict is betrayed by his mentor, the Baron Regnard, who not only steals discoveries but also his wife Marie. Benedict, reeling from his pain, joins a circus sideshow in order to become the most famous clown in France. He becomes infatuated with Consuelo, a showgirl, who has become the recipient of affections by the Baron.