Always entertaining - AND a great laboratory for nonverbal communication - Jimmy Fallon's and his "Box of Lies" - recently showcased his deceptive ability against the very talented Scarlett Johansson. What follows is a partial body language analysis.
Unilateral Eyebrow and forehead elevation
This nonverbal sign telegraphs that Fallon does not believe Johansson. While not the only indicator of incredulity, it is often quite subtle and commonly presents in a microexpression or near-microexpression.
Lateral Lip Purse
A highly under-appreciated body language sign, the lateral lip purse tells us that Honest Consideration is taking place (e.g., "What should I choose, A or B?" - with no deception).
What facial, nonverbal modifier of the lateral lip purse completely changes its meaning?
6:45
Self-Righteous Head Wiggle (This body language cannot be appreciated in a still photo, please watch the video to view the dynamics of this nonverbal).
The Self-Righteous Head Wiggle (SRHW) is a high frequency (subtle in this example), side-to-side movement of the head (often accompanied by similar jaw and torso movements) indicative of High Confidence and Alpha Emotional Tones.
7:09
What nonverbal signals does Jimmy Fallon display in this moment (as well as just after & just prior) which tell us that he's figured out Scarlett Johansson's deception - AND (like a good host) makes the decision to lose this round?
See also:
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3174: Prince William & Kate Middleton welcome their Princess - Body Language Tells
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2464: Gen. Martin Dempsey (Chairman U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff) Sen. John McCain and The Self-Righteous Torso Wiggle Body Language on Capitol Hill
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2506: Barack Obama, the Self-Righteous Head Wiggle and Retaliation Against Syrian Poison Gas Attack
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3142: Mike Pence - Governor of Indiana interview with George Stephanopoulos & the Religious Freedom Restoration Act - What Makes Gov. Pence Look Worse?
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3168: Connor McDavid on 2015 NHL Draft Lottery Day
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 2900: Lionel Messi and the Lateral Lip Purse
Nonverbal Communication Analysis No. 3169: Baltimore Deputy Police Commissioner Jerry Rodriguez regarding the Death of Freddie Gray
Nonverbal Communication No. 3110: Scarlett Johansson gets invaded by John Travolta - An Awkward Moment from the 2015 Oscars
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