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RSS FeedHeath Ledger loosens up at SBIFF
Heath Ledger was unquestionably and embarrassingly nervous at the recent Screen Actors Guild Awards.
But he appeared to be much more at ease at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival's Imperia Breakthrough Performance of the Year Award Wednesday evening.
Not that he's ever going to be a big-time public speaker, as he himself freely admits.
But the adorably fidgety Oscar nominee did seem to be enjoying his onstage chat with Pete Hammond at the Lobero Theatre.
Ledger explained about his "Brokeback Mountain" character, Ennis Del Mar, "Any form of expression had to be painful...clinched. For him, the sounds of life were too loud, the light of day too bright."
On the love scenes between he and Jake Gyllenhaal, Ledger joked, "We actually used stunt doubles."
There’s that Aussie sense of humor we love. I think Heath's ready to take this act on the road!
Photo: Heath Ledger gets used to the Oscar attention at the SBIFF Breakthrough of the Year Awards.
(Rebecca Sapp / WireImage)
I hope that Heath will be more serious about his role as Ennis Del Mar and not foke fun with it just like what he did during the SAG Awards. He owes his present popularity with his role in "Brokeback". The reason why I want Hoffman of Capote to win the OSCARS is that he is serious & feels responsible with his role.
Posted by: Eddie S. | February 13, 2006 at 11:35 AM
As an Aussie, an actor, a man, a symbol, a father, Heath Ledger has no equal. I'm so glad at least one film festival had the brains to realize this. Right on!
Posted by: acsntn | February 13, 2006 at 07:14 AM
I've known there was so much instinctual talent inside Heath Ledger for years, but I'm absolutely thrilled that he found a project that allows his ability to really shine. Now there can be no doubt left in anyone's mind that this man has uncanny depth. It's wonderful how he truly transforms onscreen, yet completely stays himself off. Keeping this kind of balance will help him acheive longevity in the industry, and I look forward to seeing him branch out and experiment with other aspects of his creativity.
With Brokeback, as far as I'm concerned, he's already won. Look at all it's given him.
Posted by: Phyllis C | February 12, 2006 at 04:33 AM
it is nice to see that there are still some artists who wear their hearts on their sleeves. mr ledger reminds me of one of my favorite actors, johnny depp, in the way he is shy doing the press thing. at the end of the day it's really about the work, so bravo mr ledger.
Posted by: patrick | February 11, 2006 at 01:21 PM
Perhaps Heath doesn't feel comfortable "being Heath," but his portrayal of Ennis Del Mar was absolutely outstanding. His versatility as an actor is evident; he created Ennis and brought this character alive so convincingly. Heath and Jake gave an impeccable and memorable performances which the images of Ennis and Jack have seared in my heart. I hope the Academy members will have the vision and wisdom to recognize their extraordinary performances and awarding them on March 5.
Posted by: Camille | February 11, 2006 at 06:20 AM
Heath has grown so much over the last couple of years. His portrayal of Ennis Del Mar is one of the greatest perfomrances of the modern screen era. Hoffman may win the Oscar, but remember O'Toole lost for Lawrence of Arabia, and Burton lost for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, and God knows those were Oscar worthy performances as well, and have shown so through the test of time.
Brokeback Mountain will not be forgotten very easily, and especially Mr Ledger's performance will haunt me for a while. Congrats Heath on your award.
Posted by: Kevin C | February 10, 2006 at 04:41 PM
It is delightful and refreshing to watch this gifted, unassuming man let his talent speak for him. What pleasure his career will bring us---
Posted by: Kurt | February 10, 2006 at 08:57 AM
After seeing Brokeback Mountain, Monster's Ball and several of his earlier films, I'm so impressed at how he has grown and developed his craft. There were so many fine performances this year, all things being equal, any one of them are Oscar worthy. But then you have Ennis Del Mar. Heath created an absolute masterpiece. I think this performance is right up there with the best, most classic film performances we have ever seen.
Nothing compares to it. Now I understand what the phrase "singular achievement" really means. I'm impressed with his humility and with his natural, delightful sense of humor.
Posted by: Leftie | February 09, 2006 at 10:39 PM
Oh great! I cannot express how refreshing it is to see and hear about a young actor who is shy, nervous and who ultimately rings true in this superficial world.
Posted by: eurys | February 09, 2006 at 07:23 PM