X Marks the Spot (1931): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1931, X Marks the Spot is a drama and crime film directed by Erle C. Kenton, running about 72 minutes. “REPORTER ON BAIL TO TRAIL MURDER CLEWS” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. The story begins in 1923 where after an accident, a newspaper reporter needs to raise $5,000 to pay for an operation, otherwise his young sister will be crippled for life. The desperate reporter is finally able to get the cash from a shady acquaintance, Riggs. Eight years later in New York, circumstances conspire to place the reporter as the number one suspect in the murder of a showgirl. With no witness or alibi, the reporter devises a plan to smoke out the real culprit. A meeting is arranged under the cover of night and to the surprise of both men, the murderer is Riggs. Out of gratitude for past generosity to his sister, the reporter agrees not to expose Riggs, however unwittingly leads the police to him! Riggs is found guilty, and a dramatic scene in the courthouse ensues.

Who’s in it. X Marks the Spot stars Lew Cody as George Howard, Sally Blane as Sue, Wallace Ford as Ted Lloyd and Fred Kohler as Edward P. Riggs, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.0/10, X Marks the Spot has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch X Marks the Spot page.

If you liked it. Fans of X Marks the Spot tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.