Heath Ledger is one of the many acting superstars of Hollywood who is considered ‘gone too soon’. His death on January 22, 2008, saddened all of his fans.
He was born on April 4, 1979, in Perth, Western Australia. His first roles were all small and rather insignificant.
However, after he was noticed by Hollywood, Heath became known as a brilliant actor. We will be looking at his best roles that nestled him in our hearts.
The Three Top Films That Made Heath Ledger a Star
The movies we discuss here are the ones that really introduced Heath and his talent to the world. Each of them showed off his amazing talent and versatility as an actor.
10 Things I Hate About You
This is the film that put Heath ‘on the map’. Although it was not his first role ever, it was the role that brought the handsome Australian and his charm to the world.
He played the role of Patrick, a heartthrob bad boy. The scene in which Patrick serenades Kat (played by Julia Stiles) with the classic love song by Frankie Valli - ‘Can't Take My Eyes Off You’ - is likely one of Heath’s most memorable scenes.
It is sweet and funny and romantic all at once. The young actor’s charm couldn’t be denied.
The world sat up and noticed the good-looking man with a smile that could melt icebergs. 10 Things I Hate About You became a cult hit, and it is still loved as one of the best teen movies in history.
The Dark Knight
Christopher Nolan gave the world a fan-favorite film when he brought to life Batman’s story with The Dark Knight. Heath showed he could play the role of a psychopath very well and that he could do so while entertaining movie lovers.
Despite being the Joker, Batman’s enemy, the actor still had a manner of charm about him that made his version of the villain one of superhero fans’ favorites. His stellar performance of Joker is sinister, cruel, uncaring, witty, and was so disturbing that it made a brilliant impression.
His scenes were unsettling to watch for some, but that’s what made him so popular. Sadly, Heath passed away just six months before the movie was released.
He would never know how appreciated his acting was. He won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, which was awarded to him posthumously.
Brokeback Mountain
This 2005 romantic drama stood out to viewers. It was the story of two gay cowboys and is seen as one of the best and most important LGBT movies of the century.
Heath starred alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, and their performances are still admired. Heath and Jake showed the world that men are also able to develop complex and lasting romantic relationships with each other.
Brokeback Mountain’s tale spans over two decades and is deep and complicated. It also offers tender moments that touched those who watched it.
Honorable Mentions
The three films that made our list of films that Heath Ledger will always be remembered for are not his only impressive roles. He managed to put his stamp on a number of films, so we added a couple of honorable mentions here.
Casanova
Everyone knows the tale of Casanova, one of the most famous lovers in history. When Heath was chosen to play him in the 2005 film, it was an immediate success.
Heath’s natural charm made him the perfect man for the role. He starred alongside Jeremy Irons, Sienna Miller, and Oliver Platt.
Viewers loved the humor and warmth he brought to the film. The film was fun and likeable, and judging by his performance, Heath enjoyed playing the role of a womanizer.
A Knight’s Tale
A Knight’s Tale is a fun romantic film that plays out during the Middle Ages. It is the tale of a lowly serf who decides to impersonate a knight and becomes a jousting champion.
Heath’s character, William, is adorable, determined, funny, and (as expected) charming. He attempts to woo a noble young woman, and their love story is one that many enjoyed.
The film broke the roles by having a classic rock soundtrack when that kind of music did not exist back then. Mexican waves didn't exist back then, either, but that didn’t stop the movie from having them.
Summary
Heath Ledger passed away from an accidental prescription drug overdose on January 22, 2008. He will always be remembered for his diverse roles, sharp humor, irresistible charm, and amazing talent.
He started in many films that fans love. The films we mentioned here are a few of the ones that continue to keep his memory alive.
