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Customer Reviews of The Sleeping Dictionary

A Period Piece Set In 1939 Malaysia--Just A Typical Jessica Alba Romp
I'm going to preface this review by saying that I think "The Sleeping Dictionary" might have made an excellent movie. But, unfortunately, as it stands--it is more of an interesting failure. Set in 1939 Malaysia, the film's locale does offer a colorful and lush backdrop to the story. Hugh Dancy stars as a British official who is sent into the jungle to "civilize" the natives--his actual job functions are somewhat sketchy and superfluous. Any time the film spends looking at his actual "work" seem to be for a culture clash comedic effect. He meets a Malaysian girl, Jessica Alba, who is to serve as his "sleeping dictionary"--someone who will teach him the local language and warm his bed. Of course, the two fall in love which brings about a whole series of complications. <
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>Now if this is supposed to be 1939 Malaysia, it is absolutely the most modernized and Westernized version possible. I couldn't take this picture seriously for a moment. Getting past that, the first half of the movie wants to be a frothy comedy while the second half is a romantic tragedy. This shift in tone is not wholly effective. By playing the first part so light, the film doesn't get us to invest in it's story or characters. When things turn more serious, then, it might hold your interest but you are never emotionally involved. <
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>I actually like the fact that Jessica Alba wanted to try a film of a more serious nature, but sadly she falls short. Half the picture, she slinks around like a playful kitten uttering lines more fitting to a modern romantic comedy than a period piece. It's so out of place as to be jarring, but actually most of the blame falls on the script's shortcomings. Those of you purely interested in Alba as a physical specimen--there's a fair amount of sex. She does, however, contort around unbelievably so as not to show any actual skin (except for a couple of obvious body double moments). As for her believability as a Malaysian--I'll be kind, it just doesn't work. <
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>Hugh Dancy is far more successful as the idealistic official. And Bob Hoskins and Brenda Blethyn are reliable, as always. For those looking for a really spirited romantic, exotic epic--I'd suggest Michael Mann's sublime "Last of the Mohicans." I just didn't connect with this film in the way necessary to make it really memorable. It's not a disaster, it's just wasted potential--and I'm sad to say it only merits about 2 1/2 stars which I'll round up because it's pretty to look at. KGHarris, 11/06.

raffles reviews
This is definitely a "sleeper". Maybe I loved it because I have strong personal conections in the geographical region and know the area and peoples where it was shot. Even so a delightful movie and gets my highest recommendation...not an easy thing to accomplish.