Take Me To Post Comment Form I'm responding to Jesse Knight article in the 8-8-08 issue of the Escape. I disagree with how he thinks. Heath Ledger's performance as the Joker was one of the best performances I have ever seen. Jack Nicholson was an awesome Joker back in the first Batman, and I thought no one would be able to top that. Well I was very wrong. Heath Ledger's portrayal shows you how into his craft he was. He fully immersed himself in his role. To say that he doesn't deserve to be recognized for his role is wrong. I would be saying this even if he was still alive. He was one of my favorite actors. I've been supporting him ever since I swooned over him in "10 Things I Hate About You." When I learned he was going to be Joker, I was skeptical but excited. The fact that his portrayal is dark, yet funny, you can't help but root for him in the end. I agree that Aaron Eckhart did have an arcing role and he was very good in it. But I don't think he was Oscar good. He did a wonderful job as Harvey Dent, but I think Heath Ledger's portrayal was more noteworthy. But that's my opinion. After seeing the movie 3 times, with more coming soon, I hope Heath is recognized for his acting, not because he died. James Dean was nominated for "Giant" after he died, but didn't win it. He wasn't nominated because he died, his performance was worthy of the nomination. I believe Heath Ledger's performance is worthy of a nomination as well, dead or alive.