Movie
The Sleeping Dictionary
He's an unexpected education.
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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Where to watch in United States
Checked Jul 22, 2026
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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.
More about The Sleeping Dictionary
Cast
Jessica AlbaSelima
Brenda BlethynAggie
Hugh DancyJohn Truscott
Bob HoskinsHenry Bullard
Junix InocianFamous
K.K. MoggieTipong
Emily MortimerCecilCredits
- Directed by
- Guy Jenkin
- Written by
- Guy Jenkin
Production details
- Status
- Released
- Original language
- English
- Budget
- $12M
- Box office
- $57.5K
Production
Fine Line FeaturesUnited States
Hat Trick ProductionsUnited Kingdom- Katira ProductionsGermany
Themes
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