Set in Sarawak, Borneo in 1936, this is a story of a native Iban and a British colonial officer. I bought the DVD only because it is a period film (which I always love) and that it is also a love story (for which I am a sucker for.) I was not disappointed. Although I wondered why the leading lady looked too gorgeous for a native Iban--but her looks is explained in the movie later on. However, when she first appears on the screen, she acts much like a Latina rather than an Asian native (more especially since this was in 1936!)...in the scene where Hugh Dancy's character is welcomed by the people, Jessica Alba's character is seated right behind him holding a tray of rice wine..the looks she gives him is definitely not Asian! Asian women are shy around men and don't give sultry and inviting looks at other men.
Hugh Dancy was perfect for the role. He looked innocent and idealistic enough. The film gives a good picture of how the British ran their colonies and how they looked on the natives--whether they be Ibans (as in this film) or whether they be Indians or Africans or Arabs. That's why Hugh Dancy's role is a very refreshing change from the stereotypes we is usually shown in movies.
The scenes looked believable, the costumes were great and I am glad they did not depict the natives as brainless. I just had a hard time believing that Hugh Dancy's character (SPOILER COMING!) would choose to live in the jungles of Borneo for the rest of his life.
I would like to see more of Hugh Dancy in future films! He is gorgeous.
Hugh Dancy was perfect for the role. He looked innocent and idealistic enough. The film gives a good picture of how the British ran their colonies and how they looked on the natives--whether they be Ibans (as in this film) or whether they be Indians or Africans or Arabs. That's why Hugh Dancy's role is a very refreshing change from the stereotypes we is usually shown in movies.
The scenes looked believable, the costumes were great and I am glad they did not depict the natives as brainless. I just had a hard time believing that Hugh Dancy's character (SPOILER COMING!) would choose to live in the jungles of Borneo for the rest of his life.
I would like to see more of Hugh Dancy in future films! He is gorgeous.