Ham Express

I know this is really, really old news. There’s been lots of coverages and tributes to Heath Ledger. But I feel like I have to say my peace as well.

Heath Ledger was not the most famous actor in the world. He wasn’t even the most famous actor in the U.S. However, he was well-respected. I had seen a few movies with him before his death. None of them really intrigued me very much. If I recall correctly, “The Patriot” was the first movie that I saw Heath act in. I wasn’t really focused on him compared to the plot and Mel Gibson. Then I saw “A Knight’s Tale,” which seemed more like a summer blockbuster film. Afterwards, I saw a few other movies which he either starred in or featured in. I never really gave much thought Heath Ledger afterwards.

In 2005 of December, Brokeback Mountain was released in theaters. The movie was nominated for eight Academy Awards and critically acclaimed for its excellent story, directing, and acting. Many reviewers praised Ledger and Gyllenhaal for their portrayals of homosexual men. In today’s society, I still feel there is much taboo and tension around homosexuality in the film industry. Not so much as it was in the 40s and 50s, but in general I suppose. Heath Ledger was able to show critics and audiences how he could take the challenge and play the role beautifully. I believe that Brokeback Mountain was the most important film of his career. This movie allowed critics to view him as not just a handsome, charming young man with talent, but as a professional actor who could take challenging roles and perform it well.

I watched the E! True Hollywood Story of Heath Ledger. The biography focused primarily on his career in the television and movie industry. Of course, gossip and personal life stories were laced throughout the documentary as well. But listening to the friends and family members of Heath talk about his personality and personal goals were compelling. Heath said in an interview that he acted because he had lots of fun doing it. If the day ever came that he stopped having fun and lost complete interest, he would walk away. According to producers, he always noted on things he could’ve done differently during the scene after the director yelled cut. He would constantly improve the way he performed. Many actors and actresses avoid peculiar and controversial roles to avoid tarnishing their reputations. But Heath was never afraid to take any challenges. He moved from Australia to the U.S. in the early 90s to pursue a career in acting after a stint of failed television programs. Many directors were captivated by Heath’s style and charisma. Something about him made him stand out from the ordinary crowd of young and talent actors. He landed his first hit movie with 10 Things I Hate About You. But Heath did not want to be type-casted as a teen, heart-throb actor. He wanted to branch out and perform other demanding roles.

The Dark Knight was one of the most highly anticipated films of the year. It was set to the release in July 2008. Several fans and comic book lovers applauded after trailers and commercials in theaters. I remember sitting in a movie that had the Dark Knight trailer and after hearing the voice of the Joker, people started clapping and cheering at the end. When I first heard the notorious Joker laugh, I had no idea who it was. My only guess was Mark Hamill, best known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, who was the voice of the Joker in Batman: The Animated Series. I went online after the movie to read up on the movie. I saw Heath Ledger in the credits. When I discovered he was going to be the one to play the Joker, I was in complete shock. It wasn’t that I doubted him, but I just couldn’t picture him as a crazy, psycho killer in a clown suit. Of course, after seeing more trailers and online news, I was even more hyped up to see it. And I saw Heath in a new light.

On January 22, 2008, Heath Ledger was announced dead. News channels and newspapers flooded Heath’s sudden death. This tragedy was truly a sad day for friends, family, and fans of Mr. Ledger. His death happened almost out of nowhere and caught everyone by surprised. Initially, I thought it was some Hollywood rumor or a hoax. It turned out to be true after turning on the TV and seeing the late actor’s name posted everywhere. Afterwards, I remembered about The Dark Knight and wondered how it was going to turn out. They finished all the filming; Nolan and the editors were just working on the finishing touches and effects before they officially released it to theaters. I knew that this movie was already going to be a huge box office success. But after Heath’s death, I was positive that this movie was guaranteed to rank in the top ten as one of highest gross in a single box-office weekend opening. I know this was a bold statement and/or thought, but I even made a bet with my roommate because that’s how sure I was.

The Dark Knight currently holds the highest box office opening weekend in the U.S. & Canada with $158,411,483.

I don’t (didn’t) want to discuss Heath’s entire biography and career. This post wasn’t meant to be a “tribute” or “dedication” to Heath, although it may be to a certain extent. The main point I’m trying to make is that I wish I had a higher appreciation for Heath Ledger when he was still alive. I certainly recognized him as a famous, successful actor in the U.S. But I never regarded him as a highly skilled and talented actor. Many people will say that they always knew how good he was and so on. Maybe they did. But I think there are many people out there like me. After watching his amazing portrayal of the Joker, my words wouldn’t even justify his acting.

Heath Ledger was only 28 years of age when he died. He was not even at his peak as an actor yet. He left us way too early. There was a lot more left he could’ve done. There is one last movie with Heath Ledger set to release in theaters called The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus. I predict the Doctor Parnassus will have box office success because it will be Heath Ledger’s final movie.

Heath Ledger, you were a phenomenal actor and I appreciate your work very much. We all miss you.

Heath Ledger 1979-2008