Trans Actors Who Excelled in Silent Film Homages

Silent films communicated stories and emotions through actors’ expressions and movements, rather than words. While modern movies and TV shows sometimes recreate this style, transgender actors are particularly skilled at this type of visual storytelling. This collection highlights performers who have used these techniques in music videos, fashion films, and acting roles.

Hunter Schafer

As a film lover, I’ve been really impressed with Hunter Schafer. She first caught my eye in ‘Euphoria’ – the show was so visually driven, often letting images tell the story instead of relying on dialogue. Then, I saw her in ‘Cuckoo’ (2024), and it was fascinating – her physical performance felt very old-school, like those dramatic, silent films from Germany. And it’s not just feature work; even in her high-fashion shorts, she’s amazing at conveying emotion just through how she moves and what’s in her eyes. It really proves that you don’t need a ton of lines to deliver a truly powerful performance.

Trace Lysette

Trace Lysette received high praise for her role in the 2022 drama ‘Monica’. The film has a unique, old-fashioned visual style, reminiscent of early silent films, and often relies on visuals instead of dialogue. Lysette powerfully communicates a character’s complex history of loss and healing through small, nuanced expressions and movements. Her performance is a striking example of how much can be conveyed through visual acting alone.

Chella Man

Chella Man played the character Jericho in the TV series ‘Titans’ (2018–2023). Jericho doesn’t speak, communicating instead through American Sign Language and by sharing his thoughts directly with the audience. Man used his entire body to express Jericho’s feelings, drawing on the expressive techniques of actors in silent films. His performance demonstrated how shows can be made accessible to everyone while still telling a powerful story through visuals.

Hari Nef

Hari Nef’s performance in the 2023 film ‘Barbie’ included playful physical comedy reminiscent of classic slapstick. She’s also been featured in short fashion films for luxury brands, where she tells stories and plays characters using only visuals. Nef’s work is known for its dramatic flair, echoing the over-the-top style of early movies.

Candy Darling

Candy Darling became a famous figure in experimental filmmaking during the late 1960s and early 1970s. She appeared in films directed by Andy Warhol, including ‘Women in Revolt’ (1971), which playfully referenced and celebrated classic Hollywood movies. Her performances often captured the dramatic and glamorous style of early film stars like Kim Novak and Jean Harlow. Darling was keenly aware of how the camera could shape her image and used it to create a lasting impression.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox channeled the iconic vampire character in her portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the 2016 television movie, ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do the Time Warp Again.’ She brought the role to life with striking movements and a powerful stage presence. Cox has also appeared in many short, silent video portraits, and consistently draws inspiration from the glamour of classic Hollywood in her visual projects.

Indya Moore

I was completely captivated by Indya Moore’s work, especially in ‘Pose’ and their short films. You could really feel their presence on screen – it’s clear their modeling background gave them an incredible ability to command attention with just a look or a pose. They’ve also been in some really cool fashion films that felt like silent, dreamlike stories. Honestly, the way they can hold your gaze with stillness reminds me of those classic silent film stars – it’s mesmerizing!

Elliot Page

Elliot Page portrayed Vanya in ‘The Umbrella Academy’ (2019–2024). The first season included powerful scenes of the character grappling with newly discovered abilities in isolation and silence. Page skillfully used small changes in body language and eye movements to show Vanya’s inner turmoil, effectively conveying rage and fear without any dialogue. These quiet moments were crucial in developing the character’s heartbreaking story.

Daniela Vega

Daniela Vega gained recognition for her role in the Oscar-winning film ‘A Fantastic Woman’ (2017). The movie features dreamlike scenes where Vega acts in front of artistic backgrounds. Through long, silent shots, her expressions powerfully convey both sorrow and strength. Vega’s performance evokes the dignified, understated style of acting common in dramas from the 1920s.

Holly Woodlawn

Holly Woodlawn was a central figure in the innovative films coming out of Andy Warhol’s scene. She’s best known for her role in the 1970 film ‘Trash,’ where she used spontaneous physical comedy and dramatic moments, often playing up the ridiculousness of situations. Woodlawn had a gift for grabbing the viewer’s attention with her unpredictable and lively presence. Her work is still celebrated as a prime example of underground film that challenged conventional filmmaking.

Jesse James Keitel

Jesse James Keitel was a powerful presence in the thriller series ‘Big Sky’ (2020–2023). Her character often found herself in stressful situations where what wasn’t said was more impactful than dialogue. Keitel used intense stares and controlled movements to command attention and create a sense of power. Her work highlighted how effective visual performance can be in building suspense in today’s thrillers.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is a compelling actor, recognized for his realistic and understated performances in series like ‘Queen Sugar’ and ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’. He often portrays strength and dependability through subtle expressions and reactions, rather than lengthy speeches. This allows viewers to understand his character’s inner thoughts simply by observing his eyes, reminiscent of the naturalistic acting style popular in the late silent film era.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross appeared in ‘American Horror Story: 1984’ (2019), playing a character trying to survive a terrifying situation. Horror movies often build suspense through visual storytelling and physical reactions, and Ross was particularly skilled at showing panic and the will to live through her movements and expressions. Her powerful performance as a ‘scream queen’ was a nod to the classic style of early horror films.

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon portrayed The Adjudicator in the 2019 action movie ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum.’ The Adjudicator is a powerful and intimidating character who doesn’t need to say much to command attention, relying instead on a strict expression and strong presence. Dillon’s performance used careful body language and a focused gaze to create a threatening effect, reminiscent of the classic, silent film villains who dominated the screen simply by how they looked.

Jen Richards

Jen Richards starred in the 2022 documentary ‘Framing Agnes,’ which creatively brought to life the stories of transgender individuals from the 1950s. The film used actors to recreate historical records, and Richards powerfully portrayed a woman from that time, capturing her movements and presence. Through her performance, Richards connected the voices of the past with contemporary understanding.

Zackary Drucker

Zackary Drucker is a multi-talented artist and producer, known for her work on shows like ‘Transparent’ (2014–2019). She frequently appears in and advises on scenes that depict Weimar-era Berlin, drawing inspiration from the history of queer performance and early cabaret. Drucker is deeply aware of how important visual representation is for the transgender community.

Leyna Bloom

Leyna Bloom first appeared in a major film in 2019 with ‘Port Authority.’ Drawing on her background as a dancer and model in the ballroom scene, her acting relied heavily on physical expression. The film uses dance to tell stories without any dialogue. Bloom communicates feelings of identity and belonging through movement, expressing things that words alone couldn’t.

Vico Ortiz

I absolutely love Vico Ortiz as Jim in ‘Our Flag Means Death’! It’s such a fun show, and it clearly draws inspiration from those old, classic pirate movies – you know, the ones from the very beginning of filmmaking. What really makes Vico’s performance stand out is how physical it is; they’re so skilled at both comedy and action. It reminds me of those early movie heroes – incredibly expressive faces and just brimming with energy. It’s a brilliant throwback!

Leo Sheng

Leo Sheng played a role in ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ (2019–2023) that explored complicated relationships. His most memorable scenes were often quiet and personal. Sheng’s acting is subtle and draws the audience in with his openness and honesty. He powerfully portrays sadness and pain without relying on dramatic outbursts, making his performance truly moving.

Jamie Clayton

Jamie Clayton powerfully portrayed the Priest in the 2022 reimagining of ‘Hellraiser.’ The character is frightening and reserved, and relies on a commanding presence. Clayton used extensive prosthetic makeup to create a feeling of timeless evil. Her performance paid tribute to the series’ visual history while adding a unique sense of calm to the monster.

Alexandra Billings

As a total movie and TV buff, I’ve always been impressed with Alexandra Billings. She’s a seasoned actor – you might recognize her from ‘Transparent’ – and it’s clear she really honed her skills on stage. You can see that theatrical background in how she commands attention, using her whole body to express emotion. Especially in musical numbers or when the show flashes back, she really leans into a more dramatic, expressive style. It’s like she perfectly connects those older, more flamboyant acting traditions with the more naturalistic style we see on screen today.

Scott Turner Schofield

Scott Turner Schofield is an actor who has appeared in projects like the film ‘The Conductor’ and the series ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’. He made history as the first trans man to be nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award. He’s known for his realistic and subtle acting style, which is particularly effective when filmed up close. Schofield skillfully uses close-up shots to convey what his characters are thinking and feeling.

Bobbi Salvör Menuez

Bobbi Salvör Menuez is known for their work in visually striking films, such as ‘Nocturnal Animals’ (2016). They often play supporting characters who enhance the mood and suspense of a story. Directors frequently use Menuez’s unique appearance in carefully composed shots, and their presence consistently adds visual interest to any scene.

Theo Germaine

Theo Germaine gave a standout performance in the 2022 horror film ‘They/Them’. Their character had to stay quiet to survive in a frightening situation, and Germaine brilliantly showed the character’s careful thought process. The performance added a lot to the film’s suspense and visual style.

Quei Tann

Quei Tann has appeared in shows like ‘They/Them’ (2022) and ‘How to Get Away with Murder’. She’s skilled at portraying characters who are both charming and a little bit deceptive, and she conveys this beautifully through her facial expressions. Tann has a natural ability to command attention on screen, making her a great fit for ensemble casts, and she can often steal a scene with just a look.

Yasmin Finney

Yasmin Finney became well-known for her work on the series ‘Heartstopper’ (2022–present) and also appeared in ‘Doctor Who’ (2023). In ‘Heartstopper’, her character often expresses feelings of loneliness and budding romance through visually-driven scenes. Finney powerfully conveys the character’s teenage desires with her expressive eyes, and these quiet moments are key to the show’s emotional impact.

Isis King

Isis King is an actress and former model, recognized for her role in the 2019 miniseries ‘When They See Us’. Her modeling experience gives her a natural grace and ability to convey emotion through her presence, even without speaking. Throughout her career, she’s excelled in projects that emphasize visual storytelling and atmosphere.

Silas Howard

Silas Howard both starred in and directed the independent film ‘By Hook or By Crook’ (2001). Known for its raw, realistic look, the film focuses on characters living on the fringes of society. Howard’s acting is characterized by a tough, physical presence and a humorous partnership with his co-star. ‘By Hook or By Crook’ proves that independent filmmakers can create compelling visual stories even with small budgets.

Please share your favorite performance from this list in the comments.

2025-12-11 17:54