The Singapore Grip

For rubber baron Walter Blackett and his family, 1941 Singapore is full of wealth and privilege, where the horrors of war-torn Europe are a distant whisper. But when their power and stability are rocked by new arrivals and the looming threat of a Japanese invasion, Walter has a cunning plan.

Matthew adjusts to life in Singapore and acquaints himself with his father's rubber trade, but is troubled when he discovers that dubious practices are taking place. After an evening of Singaporean entertainment with the Blacketts, Matthew, exhausted and fever-ridden, finds himself torn between two women, and America joins the war.

The Blacketts intensify their campaign to secure Matthew's allegiances and Walter remains obstinate, despite the Japanese bombing Singapore. Vera nurses Matthew through his fevered delirium while the Major is warned not to trust her. Charlie, Sylvia's brother, re-joins his regiment and Ehrendorf volunteers, and Matthew makes a momentous decision.

While the Blacketts conspire against him, Matthew learns the true nature of life and love in Singapore. As he and Vera get closer, Walter petitions the Governor and Joan hatches a plan of her own. Meanwhile, the Japanese tighten their grip on the continent.

When tragedy strikes the Langfeld's, Walter spots an opportunity to turn the situation to his advantage. Despite Singapore's continuing bombardment, Joan refuses to leave empty handed as she and Monty look to make their escape. Matthew and Vera desperately battle panicking crowds as they attempt to secure her safety.

Despite the crushing attacks on Singapore, the British army are instructed to continue fighting at all costs. Walter, still reeling from recent news, struggles to face the harsh truth and his grip on reality weakens. Matthew hears devastating news about Vera and races to save her from danger, but not without a struggle. As the British surrender to the Japanese, unprepared for the challenge to their way out of Singapore, tragedy strikes for all involved.