THE POWER OF THE UNSPOKEN: SILENCE AND SUBTLE PERFORMANCE IN FILM

Abstract

This Article aims to analyze the power of the unspoken: silence and subtle performance in film ‘Scent of a Woman’ starring by Al Pacino as a case study, focusing on the silent performance of the role of Frank Slade. Through multi-level text analysis, lens language interpretation and performance theory. The study found that silence is not just a blank in dialogue, but also a space for emotional outburst. Al Pacino achieved a profound display of the character's inner world through micro-details such as eyes, breathing, and body movements, which enhanced the narrative tension of the film and the resonance of the audience. This paper enriches the understanding of non-verbal performance in film and television performance theory, and provides theoretical reference and practical guidance for future performance teaching and film and television creation.