"The Sleeping Dictionary" is a romantic drama film set in the 1930s, focusing on a British man named John Truscott who travels to British Malaya for work. There, he meets a local woman named Selima, who becomes his language tutor. Their relationship deepens as they navigate cultural differences and societal expectations. The film explores themes of love, identity, and colonialism, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in a changing world. As John and Selima grow closer, they confront the realities of their circumstances, ultimately questioning the boundaries imposed by their respective cultures.