MannerismsGestures and MovementArms Crossed Vincent frequently stands erect with his arms crossed. This is commonly viewed as a defensive posture all around the world, although it can also be interpreted as self-assuring. I believe this position simply fits Vincent's personality. Usually when we stand with arms crossed, we are being standoffish or we're simply taking things in, which are two things Vincent does often. In certain instances, Vincent will add another action to the arm crossing. These new stances have different messages. When the group gathers together, Vincent, in addition to crossing his arms, crosses his right leg over his left, the toe of his foot resting on the ground. In this position, he is relaxed and listening to whoever is speaking. Other times, Vincent will glare and cross his arms as his cape moves in the breeze. Typically, this means he doesn't trust or like what someone is saying. The most notable instance of this is a scene with Aeris in the Temple of the Ancients. After Cloud starts acting strangely, she tries to remedy the situation by getting Vincent to act like nothing is wrong, but instead, he responds with this action. Cape Toss Vincent tosses his cape behind him in a number of different situations. Before a battle or when he senses danger, he'll push it out of the way in preparation. He may also do this when he's come to a decision or when he agrees with what someone is saying. Shielding the Face Whenever Vincent recalls something from his past (usually Lucrecia) he'll turn away from the party and lift his right arm to cover his face. Possibly he does this to shut the others out for a moment of quiet introspection. This action also suggests that he may be trying to hide what he's thinking and feeling. Pointing When referring or talking to someone, Vincent will sometimes bring his right arm straight out to the side and move it forward to point at them. Personally, I find this mannerism bizarre and silly, but I suppose it's a way of getting someone's attention. Lowering Head The only time Vincent performs this action is when Lucrecia is near. He does this during their time together in Nibelheim, whenever his attempts to dissuade Lucrecia and Hojo fail, and when he finally sees her again years later in the cavern. This action is a pained one, and an obvious hint that he's holding back on what he really wants to say. Laugh We only see Vincent physically laugh once in the game (his only other laugh is implied in text). His head and shoulders move up and down slightly as he chuckles. Running When Vincent runs, he bends his knees to lower his body closer to the ground. In addition, he moves his head forward and puts his arms straight behind him. Considering Vincent's character, this may seem a ridiculous way for him to run. However, this position enables a taller, thinner person to move faster. By positioning the body closer to the ground, longer legs can sprint forward further distances. Before he was experimented on, Vincent ran at regular height, with his head only slightly forward. Why the change in running style, I don't know. |