By Meredith A. Iager

There are articles surfacing in Hollywood regarding the death of Ledger, and the impact that it could have made on the high ticket sales of the new Batman flick ‘Dark Knight.' As a film fanatic, a movie reviewer, a journalist, a Heath fan, and a Batman fan I must say, "What an enormous slap in Heath's face!" Why on earth would someone, a fellow journalist, or thoughtless individual say such a ridiculous thing? I must say, his performance, as The Joker was so believable that it was unbelievable. I felt as though, he was the movie, and everyone seemed to be dancing around him.

The thought or phrase "Only the good die young," hits my brain at this point. Heath Ledger was not only an extraordinary young talented actor, but also a doting father, and a true individual. He is what we call a character actor. He was soon to become an Anthony Hopkins of his generation. He broke barriers in the roles he chose. He had a "look" that could captivate an audience; no matter what character he played. He wanted to live life on his own terms and did.

If Heath were alive today, the movie would have probably made even more. I think some people, especially his most dedicated fans, might have been nervous about seeing his official "last role," that extended an entire movie (we will see him in the ‘Doctor Parnassus' flick - but not enough Heath, just clips since his role wasn't completed). It's just like mourning the loss of a loved one-some want to see videos or photos of that person; others don't want to be reminded of the loss-just yet. Also, moviegoers and "Batmania" has been curious, excited, and wanting to see the new Bat-flick since we heard about Heath's new devilish take on The Joker character-hence the high-ticket sales.

Anyone that actually believes that Heath's death sold more tickets must be as insane as The Joker. Heath wanted to perfect his new role so badly that he sunk to an ultimate low and became sleep deprived. It is an extreme loss to his family, fans, and the entire entertainment community. For some pathetic movie reviewer or journalist, or Hollywood executive to say such a thing is extremely angering, but everyone is entitled to an opinion, even if they don't understand the entire subject matter at hand, right? Some opinions are better left unsaid.