FROM THE NEWS ARCHIVES OF CINEMA CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIRMED: Heath Ledger is The Joker in "The Dark Knight"
POSTED
ON
08/01/06 AT 12:30 A.M.
BY ETHAN AAMES
Warner Bros. has announced that Heath Ledger as officially been cast as The Joker in "The Dark Knight," the sequel to last year's "Batman Begins." "The Dark Knight" will be penned by Jonathan Nolan, based on a story by Christopher Nolan and David Goyer. The film will be produced by Emma Thomas, Charles Roven and Christopher Nolan. Additionally, Christian Bale will resume his role as Bruce Wayne, according to Jeff Robinov, President of Production, Warner Bros. Pictures. “Chris’ unique vision is what made Batman Begins such an outstanding film and we could not imagine anyone else at the helm of 'The Dark Knight,'” said Robinov. “We also can’t wait to see two such formidable actors as Christian and Heath face off with each other as Batman and The Joker.” “I'm excited to continue the story we started with 'Batman Begins,'” added Nolan. “Our challenge in casting The Joker was to find an actor who is not just extraordinarily talented but fearless. Watching Heath Ledger's interpretation of this iconic character taking on Christian Bale’s Batman is going to be incredible.” Production is set to begin on "The Dark Knight" in early 2007.