What movies would you recommend to introduce someone to silent films?
I would probably recommend comedies from filmmakers such as Buster Keaton before I’d recommend a drama. Comedies “translate” better to the modern era, and Buster’s “stoneface” acting style is closer to modern acting than most silent performers.
I think you’re exactly right, watch the silent comedies. Specifically, Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin and Harold Lloyd. Beware of Harry Langdon and Fatty Arbuckle, who just aren’t funny. All of these guys have a lot of great short films, particularly Chaplin’s early films for Mutual. But feature-wise, Chaplin’s first feature, The Kid; Keaton’s Our Hospitality and The General; and Lloyd’s The Freshman.