After escaping from imprisonment by Japanese forces, American soldier Learoyd (Nick Nolte) takes shelter in the remote wilderness of Borneo. When Learoyd encounters a primitive tribe out in the jungle, it seems that he may be in trouble again, but the natives, awed by his unfamiliar appearance, embrace him as a god. Later, British troops discover Learoyd and his followers, and, though he isn't inclined to return to battle, events lead to his fighting for his adopted people.