The first American produced martial arts spectacular!
Lee is a Shaolin martial artist in Hong Kong. He possesses great philosophical insight into martial arts as well as physical prowess, and this has earned him an invitation to a martial arts tournament organized by the mysterious Han, though he does not wish to attend. Lee's sifu informs him that Han was once a Shaolin student as well, but he abandoned them and their moral code, abusing his skills to gain wealth and power. A man named Braithwaite visits the Shaolin temple to speak with Lee. Braithwaite is the representative of an international intelligence organization that has been secretly investigating Han.
The island where Han's tournament is held every three years was purchased by Han after World War II, when its nationality was uncertain. The island is now beyond international jurisdiction. Han is a heroin and opium dealer, systematically building his customers' dependence on the drugs to insure their continued business. He also runs a substantial prostitution business on his island. Han's martial arts school and tournament are a cover for Han to recruit new talent.
Han reigns over his island like a king, living decadently in a grand palace.