I like this despite its faults,some questions.

I like this film but it feels dated in its use of non Chinese actors as Chinese characters.

Another problem is that the South coast of England is unconvincing as China.

There is not lot happening at points in the film.

But overall I like it,Todd is fine as the captain and the rest of the cast do what they can with limited parts.

I do have a couple of questions that somebody might be able to help me with?

The sailors at no point arm themselves with small arms,did they not fear an assault by Chinese troops?

If you research this incident on the internet you get people saying that the British were crazy and reckless to allow the ship to be put in harm's way as it was.

Was it an error to send the ships that way?
Were the British somehow helping the nationalist Chinese forces?