The Sleeping Dictionary (2003)

The Sleeping Dictionary poster

"He's an unexpected education."

Movie · 2003 · 1h 49m · Released · Rated R · Drama, Romance

Synopsis

In the 1930s, British officer John Truscott journeys to a remote village in colonial Malaysia to educate and Westernize the local Iban population. There, he's introduced to the lovely Selima. In keeping with tradition, Selima is assigned to sleep with Truscott and teach him the native language and customs. But when they fall in love, both colonists and natives object to their plans to marry.

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Streaming availability via JustWatch

Cast

  • Jessica Alba as Selima
  • Brenda Blethyn as Aggie
  • Hugh Dancy as John Truscott
  • Bob Hoskins as Henry Bullard
  • Junix Inocian as Famous
  • Mano Maniam as Policeman
  • K.K. Moggie as Tipong
  • Emily Mortimer as Cecil
  • Noah Taylor as Neville
  • Christopher Ling Lee Ian as Jasmine

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