WHAT better way to learn about acting and directing than from the experts themselves? Students of Limkokwing University of Creative Technology recently had this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when Australian actor Mel Gibson dropped by the campus in Cyberjaya for a surprise visit.

The highly controversial Hollywood star was accompanied by renowned producer and buddy Bruce Davey.

Upon arrival, hundreds of screaming students rushed to catch a glimpse of the duo as they stepped out of the car to be greeted by Limkokwing president Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing.

Accompanying Gibson and Davey was Petra Group president, Datuk Vinod Sekhar.

The blue-eyed hero in movies such as Braveheart, Lethal Weapon, Mad Max and Apocalypto fielded many questions from the floor. When asked on the future of filmmaking, Gibson said: “Movies are going digital, where you can see everything.”

He also had much to share with aspiring filmmakers.  “Acting and directing are essentially the same. An actor is the ball-carrier in the storyteller. A director is the storyteller, and the one in charge of guidance and components,” Gibson told his fans in the university’s Hall of Fame.

International flavour

“It’s more satisfying to direct because directing has more impact. It’s the same game since 32 years ago when I was just starting out at 19. You can learn a lot in 32 years.”

In motivating Limkokwing’s future filmmakers, Gibson said: “You have to be inspired and engaging. You will realise that it’s intensely interesting if you follow your dreams.”

“Hone and refine that gift you’re born with and channel that out.”

The students weren’t the only ones mesmerised. Gibson himself was taken aback by the university’s “international flavour”. “It’s so overwhelming speaking to people from all around the world,” he said.

Lim said Gibson’s talk on computer-generated movies and directing techniques had certainly been enlightening for the students.

“Mel Gibson and Bruce Davey are among the most successful, creative people in the world. They’re huge icons and their movies are watched by millions. Their presence on campus alone is highly inspiring to those studying to be film producers, directors as well as other positions in the film and television field.

Lim also acknowledged the significance of a big Hollywood name getting to personally witness the many talents available in a Malaysian education institution.

“The world should know that the country has a lot of talent to offer. The innovative lifestyle education the university provides trains young creative minds to be versatile, IT-savvy and ready for the global stage,”

To mark their visit, Lim awarded Gibson and Davey with honorary fellowships.