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Movie poster: The Sleeping Dictionary (2003)
🎬 Movie

The Sleeping Dictionary

2003 · 109 min Drama Romance
6.4 / 10 · TMDB

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.

Trailer: The Sleeping Dictionary
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📋 Film Details

Year 2003
Country Germany, United Kingdom, United States of America
Genre Drama, Romance
Director Guy Jenkin
Runtime 109 min.
Rating TMDB: 6.4/10 (179 votes)

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🎬 MovieFinder's Take

The film doesn't rush. It trusts the viewer — gives time to inhabit the characters, understand what's really happening. Direction here serves the actors rather than overwhelming them.

This film doesn't entertain — it speaks. If you're ready for that, it'll leave a mark. If not — it'll seem slow.

A good choice for those who value subtle direction and honest performance.

Director: Guy Jenkin

— MovieFinder Editorial

🕯️

Best Watched

Viewing atmosphere: Unhurried, on a weekday evening. Put down the phone, let the film work.

🎭 Cast

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba

Selima

Brenda Blethyn

Brenda Blethyn

Aggie

Hugh Dancy

Hugh Dancy

John Truscott

Bob Hoskins

Bob Hoskins

Henry Bullard

👤

Christopher Ling Lee Ian

Jasmine

👤

Junix Inocian

Famous

👤

Michael Jessing Langgi

Melaka

Mano Maniam

Mano Maniam

Policeman

K.K. Moggie

K.K. Moggie

Tipong

Emily Mortimer

Emily Mortimer

Cecil

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