[3] A young white girl, Lia Eltham, is left in Fu Manchu's care.

A British regiment, chasing Boxer rebels, fires on Fu Manchu's home, killing his wife and child.

Opposing Fu Manchu are Police Inspector Nayland Smith and Dr. Jack Petrie.

[1] The Mysterious Dr. Fu Manchu incorporates several Yellow Peril stereotypes typical of that era in its portrayal of Fu Manchu, including his skillful use of poison, blow darts, and use of hypnosis to control a white woman throughout the film.

[4] Several of the actors portray the same roles in the 1930 sequel The Return of Dr. Fu Manchu, which was followed by the conclusion of the trilogy, the 1931 Daughter of the Dragon.