Scent of a Woman (1992) is a powerful drama starring Al Pacino as a blind, bitter, yet fiercely charismatic former Army officer, and Chris O’Donnell as the young student who learns about life, loyalty, and courage over one unforgettable weekend. Packed with unforgettable speeches and iconic scenes, the film is a masterclass in performance and moral strength.
Think you remember who danced with dignity, who defended honor, and who shouted “Hoo-ah!” with unmatched conviction? Take this 10-question trivia challenge and prove you’ve got the spirit of the Colonel.
Scent of a Woman Trivia Questions & Answers
Here are the correct answers and full explanations for Scent of a Woman (1992) — a heartfelt journey of honor, courage, and unexpected friendship that earned Al Pacino his first Oscar.
1) Who plays the blind Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade in Scent of a Woman (1992)?
Correct Answer: Al Pacino
Al Pacino delivers a commanding and emotional performance as Frank Slade, a blind, retired Army lieutenant colonel. His role earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, praised for its depth, intensity, and vulnerability.
2) What is Charlie Simms’ role in the story?
Correct Answer: Student caretaker for Slade
Charlie, played by Chris O’Donnell, is a prep school student from a modest background who takes a weekend job looking after Frank Slade during Thanksgiving break. What starts as an easy paycheck turns into a life-changing experience.
3) Which school does Charlie attend?
Correct Answer: Baird School
Charlie is a student at the prestigious Baird School, where he finds himself caught between doing what’s right and protecting his future when he’s pressured to inform on fellow students after a prank.
4) Why does Frank Slade want to visit New York City?
Correct Answer: To enjoy life before ending it
Unbeknownst to Charlie, Slade’s plan for the trip is to indulge in a few final pleasures — a fine meal, luxury hotel, a fast car, and a beautiful woman — before ending his own life. The film follows his emotional and moral awakening as Charlie helps him rediscover a reason to live.
5) What famous line does Slade often exclaim?
Correct Answer: “Hoo-ah!”
“Hoo-ah!” becomes Slade’s trademark expression, punctuating moments of excitement, determination, or bravado. The phrase, a military exclamation, adds character and rhythm to Pacino’s performance and became one of the film’s most iconic elements.
6) What luxurious activity does Slade treat himself to in NYC?
Correct Answer: Test-driving a Ferrari
Despite being blind, Slade persuades a car salesman to let him test-drive a red Ferrari. With Charlie nervously navigating from the passenger seat, the scene is tense, funny, and strangely liberating — a metaphor for living boldly.
7) What dance does Slade perform with a stranger in a restaurant?
Correct Answer: Tango
In one of the film’s most memorable scenes, Slade dances a graceful tango with a young woman named Donna. Despite his blindness, his poise and passion shine through, showing a different side to his complex personality.
8) What moral dilemma is Charlie facing back at school?
Correct Answer: Whether to inform on classmates
Charlie witnesses a prank involving the headmaster’s car but is pressured to name those responsible. The school promises a recommendation to Harvard in exchange — placing Charlie in a tough spot between integrity and ambition.
9) What does Slade do during the school’s disciplinary hearing?
Correct Answer: Defends Charlie with a passionate speech
In a fiery, eloquent speech, Slade defends Charlie’s honor, condemns the school’s lack of integrity, and praises Charlie’s moral courage. It’s the emotional climax of the film — a turning point for both characters.
10) How does the film end for Charlie and Slade?
Correct Answer: They part as friends, both changed
After the hearing, Slade and Charlie return to Slade’s home. The colonel has a renewed sense of purpose, and Charlie heads back to school with his integrity intact. Their bond, formed over a turbulent weekend, ends with deep mutual respect and friendship.
