The Sleeping Dictionary
- Drama
- Romance
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.
The Sleeping Dictionary is a 2003 drama-romance film set in 1930s colonial Malaysia, following a British officer who falls in love with a local woman assigned to teach him the native language and customs. As their relationship deepens, both colonists and indigenous people oppose their plans to marry. The film explores themes of cultural clash, forbidden love, and the complexities of colonial-era relationships.
When does The Sleeping Dictionary come out?
Where to watch
Streaming availability in United States
United StatesNot available on any tracked streaming service in United States right now.
Available in: Argentina · Austria · Australia · Bolivia · Canada · Switzerland · +19 more
The Sleeping Dictionary is streaming in another region
Available to stream in Italy South Korea San Marino Holy See— but not in United States.
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In cinemas
Theatrical release in United States
Wide release in United States · Rated R
Theatrical dates from TMDB. Cinema chain links go to the official websites for showtimes and bookings — check there for the actual showtimes near you.
Rent or buy
Digital purchase & rental in United States
Where to watch The Sleeping Dictionary by country
United Kingdom
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Germany
France
Spain
Canada
Australia
BrazilTop cast
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Jessica AlbaSelima
Brenda BlethynAggie
Hugh DancyJohn Truscott
Bob HoskinsHenry Bullard
Junix InocianFamous- Mano ManiamPoliceman
K.K. MoggieTipong
Emily MortimerCecil
Noah TaylorNeville- Christopher Ling Lee IanJasmine
- Michael Jessing LanggiMelaka
- Cicilia Anak RichardJester Woman
- Malcolm RogersVicar
- Eugene SallehBelansai
- Kate Helen WhiteMandar
Trailer
Sleeping Dictionary
Related & spin-offs
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The Sleeping Dictionary — frequently asked
When was The Sleeping Dictionary released?
The film was released on January 31, 2003.
What is the plot about?
The story follows British officer John Truscott in 1930s Malaysia, who is assigned a local Iban woman named Selima to teach him the language and customs. When they fall in love, their relationship faces opposition from both colonial authorities and the native community.
What genres does The Sleeping Dictionary fall into?
The film is a drama-romance that explores themes of cultural conflict and forbidden love during the colonial period.
Where can I watch The Sleeping Dictionary?
As a 2003 film, availability varies by region and streaming platform; check your local streaming services or rental options for current viewing options.
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