What is a key characteristic of silent era film acting?

In silent era film acting, exaggerated gestures and facial expressions played a crucial role in conveying emotions and narratives, as spoken dialogue was absent. Actors needed to rely heavily on their physicality to communicate feelings and intentions to the audience, often using grandiose movements, heightened facial expressions, and remarkable body language. This approach helped them to tell stories visually and engage viewers effectively.

During this time, filmmakers also utilized techniques such as intertitles to provide context or dialogue, but the primary focus was on the actor's ability to express through gestures alone. This method became a distinctive characteristic of silent films and has influenced subsequent acting styles in cinema, contributing to the unique aesthetic of this era. Other options, while reflecting certain facets of performance, do not align with the predominant style established in silent films, where visual storytelling was essential.