On the Island of Manukura, a French colony in the South Seas, a joyful native named Terangi is a leader and first mate of a tall ship. After marrying Marama and sailing to Tahiti, Terangi is sentenced to six months of forced labor for defending himself against a racist Frenchman. Despite efforts by his captain and others, Terangi's sentence is repeatedly increased as he attempts to escape. Eight years later, he finally breaks free and returns to the island, where he is celebrated as a hero. However, his homecoming is threatened by a devastating hurricane.
The Hurricane
A Polynesian sailor, wrongly accused and imprisoned for standing up against a colonial bully, faces harsh treatment from a ruthless French governor who maintains a tight grip on the island.