Actor Michael Emerson spoke to advanced theater classes at 'Iolani, sharing insights from his long, respected career in film, theater and televsion. Emerson also stars as Ben Linus in the ABC hit series "Lost" - a role for which he received two Emmy nominations. 

As students embark on their film projects, Emerson discussed the difference between acting for the stage versus acting for the camera.

"You as the actor, are the most important creature in a theater production," Emerson said. "But you're not the most important creature when they're making a film. The most important creature is the camera. It's another level of technique you'll have to cultivate."

Emerson also shared insight into acting for tight and wide camera angles, meaningful facial expressions, knowing one's marks on the set, and being aware of the camera's focus. 

"The lens is the ever present other character in a scene," he added about working in television or film.

While Emerson has had several roles in televison, film and on stage, he is widely known for his 2001 guest appearance on The Practice for which he won an Emmy  and his role as Zep Hindle in the 2004 horror movie Saw.

'Iolani's student actors were thrilled and thankful for Emerson's visit. Mahalo.