In the movie, John Truscott, a linguist, travels to Borneo to work with the Iban tribe. He is assigned a local guide, Selima, who teaches him the language and customs. As John learns from Selima, he develops romantic feelings for her, despite being forbidden by both the locals and his superior, Henry Bullard. Defying the rules, John's actions have devastating consequences.
The Sleeping Dictionary
In 1930s Malaysian Borneo, a British expatriate arrives to represent the UK, and through his interactions with a local woman, he uncovers the tribe's customs and dialect. As their bond strengthens, their romance clashes with the societal norms of the time.
