Meaning: The quote by Robert Benton, a renowned director and screenwriter, addresses the universal appeal of movies without meaningful dialogue. Benton suggests that films with minimal dialogue have the ability to resonate with audiences globally, transcending language barriers. He uses the example of "The Apostle," a film he believes to be exceptional, but doubts its success in Korea due to its reliance on dialogue.

Benton's statement raises an interesting point about the power of visual storytelling in cinema. While dialogue is a crucial element in many films, especially those focused on character development and narrative progression, there is a distinct artistry in crafting a movie that can convey its message and evoke emotions primarily through visual and non-verbal cues. This approach allows such films to connect with audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds, as they rely less on language-specific communication and more on universal human experiences and emotions.

"The Apostle," directed by Robert Duvall, is a prime example of a film that emphasizes visual storytelling and relies less on dialogue to convey its narrative. The movie follows the story of a charismatic and enigmatic preacher, played by Duvall himself, as he grapples with personal struggles and redemption. The film's power lies in its ability to immerse viewers in the emotional journey of its protagonist through compelling visuals, evocative performances, and a captivating storyline, all of which contribute to its universal appeal.

The success of dialogue-light films in international markets can be attributed to their ability to engage audiences on a more visceral and emotional level. Visual storytelling, when executed effectively, has the potential to evoke powerful responses from viewers, regardless of their linguistic or cultural background. This form of storytelling relies on the visual and auditory elements of cinema, such as cinematography, sound design, and music, to create a rich and immersive experience that transcends language barriers.

Moreover, the absence of extensive dialogue in a film can also invite viewers to actively interpret and engage with the story on a deeper level. By leaving room for individual interpretation and emotional resonance, dialogue-light films can foster a sense of universality, allowing audiences to project their own experiences and emotions onto the narrative. This open-ended quality can contribute to the film's ability to resonate with diverse audiences worldwide.

While Benton's assertion about the limited appeal of "The Apostle" in Korea may reflect the cultural and linguistic nuances of specific markets, it also underscores the importance of understanding the unique preferences and sensibilities of different audiences. Despite the universal appeal of visual storytelling, certain cultural and contextual factors can influence the reception of a film in specific regions. This highlights the need for filmmakers to consider the cultural and linguistic dynamics of their target audiences when crafting and promoting their work for international release.

In conclusion, Robert Benton's quote sheds light on the universal appeal of movies without meaningful dialogue and the power of visual storytelling in engaging audiences worldwide. Films like "The Apostle" exemplify the ability of visual and non-verbal storytelling to transcend language barriers and evoke emotional responses from diverse viewers. While dialogue-light films may face cultural and linguistic considerations in specific markets, their capacity to resonate on a universal level underscores the enduring impact of visual storytelling in cinema.