Cast: Hugh Dancy, Jessica Alba, Brenda Blethyn, Bob Hoskins.

A direct to video film, this period romance has won four DVD Exclusive Awards in 2003 for Best Actress Jessica Alba, Best Cinematography by Martin Fuhrer, Best Supporting Actor Bob Hoskins, and Best Supporting Actress Brenda Blethyn. The movie title refers to Alba's character: She's half Sarawak / Brit native, (the movie was actually shot in Sarawak, the film's setting) and set in Sarawak, Malaysia in 1937, when young John Truscott (Hugh Dancy), fresh out of University is deputed to serve his Majesty's government as an official of the Empire. The regional governor is Henry Bullard (Bob Hoskins), in charge of the Iban, a tribe of friendly headhunters. John, like his father, has a dream of educating the Iban children, but that requires him to learn the local language and customs. Knowing this, the governor arranges for John to have a local girl (Jessica Alba) who will teach the young Englishmen to speak the language and tutor him in the ways of love.

John initially resists the second part of his education, but in the end falls in love with Alba, which violates the taboos of both cultures. A love triangle unfolds when after a tragic incident between natives and Dutch smugglers, John finds himself blackmailed by Henry into marrying his daughter. But his mind is set on the sensual, seductive native paramour. Who will he chose?

This is a visually stunning film, showcasing the majesty of Malaysia's rainforests. A beautiful, moving musical score by Simon Boswell combined with the ambient noises of the rainforest, make you feel like you're actually in Sarawak with the characters. If you’re interested in a good story, some great scenery, then this is a great film.

Rating: ***

-- Reviewed by Verus Ferreira