Drama,Romance
United States of America
The Sleeping Dictionary is a 2003 romantic drama film directed by Guy Jenkin and starring Hugh Dancy, Jessica Alba, Brenda Blethyn, Emily Mortimer, and Bob Hoskins.
The movie tells the story of John Truscott, a young Englishman who is sent to Sarawak, Borneo, to be an assistant district officer in the colonial government. Upon arrival, he is introduced to the local customs by Henry Bullard, his mentor and boss. Truscott is fascinated by the beauty and culture of Sarawak and quickly becomes friends with Regina, a local girl who serves as his "sleeping dictionary" to teach him the language and customs of the region.
Soon after his arrival, Truscott meets Selima, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who works for Henry Bullard's family. Despite their cultural differences and the disapproval of his colleagues, Truscott becomes attracted to Selima and the two begin a secret romance.
As their relationship deepens, Truscott finds himself torn between his love for Selima and his duty to the colonial government and the British Empire. At the same time, he starts to question the morality of British colonialism and the treatment of the local people, leading to a clash with Bullard and his peers.
The Sleeping Dictionary is a story of love and cultural differences, set against the backdrop of colonialism and the struggle for independence in Sarawak. The movie received mixed reviews from critics, but was praised for its cinematography, performances, and approach to the complex issues surrounding colonialism.
