John Payne stars as the title character, Captain China. A nickname he has grown into because of his experience in sailing the seas of the Orient. The film opens with Payne in disgrace, accused of being too drunk to navigate a safe course and during his stupor he fell overboard. Captain China's version of the story differs quite a bit. He claims he was framed by men who all had a grudge against him.
Captain China's accusers are his first mate and a couple of roguish deck hands. The first mate, played by Jeffrey Lynn, inherits Captain China's old ship when he is relieved of his command. Lynn's first voyage seems to be going smoothly until he learns one of his passengers is Captain China. This makes Lynn and the two deck hands extremely nervous.
I should point out that the viewer at this point isn't exactly sure which story is the truth. Payne is portrayed as a gruff man of action, not exactly an endearing character. But during the film's climax, when a typhoon threatens the ship's safe voyage, Captain China comes through. Lynn panics during the storm and his error almost capsizes the ship. China is asked to take over and he reveals a cool head and an expertise at navigating through a difficult situation.
Captain China's accusers are his first mate and a couple of roguish deck hands. The first mate, played by Jeffrey Lynn, inherits Captain China's old ship when he is relieved of his command. Lynn's first voyage seems to be going smoothly until he learns one of his passengers is Captain China. This makes Lynn and the two deck hands extremely nervous.
I should point out that the viewer at this point isn't exactly sure which story is the truth. Payne is portrayed as a gruff man of action, not exactly an endearing character. But during the film's climax, when a typhoon threatens the ship's safe voyage, Captain China comes through. Lynn panics during the storm and his error almost capsizes the ship. China is asked to take over and he reveals a cool head and an expertise at navigating through a difficult situation.