The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
Terry Gilliam Directs Heath Ledger In His Final Performance
May 20, 2009
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus generated a lot of publicity last year when it unintentionally became the last film to star the late Heath Ledger, as he tragically died in January 2008, before completing filming the role of Tony.
Generosity Saves The Film
Filming of the movie was put on hold for the months after Ledger’s death but due to the fantastical plot line, other actors were able to step in and take up the role where Ledger left off. This enabled the film to be completed and Ledgers last ever performance to reach the big screen. His last fully completed role was in The Dark Knight, where he played Batman's arch enemy, The Joker. He was awarded with a posthumous Best Supporting Actor Oscar in February 2009 for his outstanding work in the movie.
The role call of talent that took up the challenge to complete Ledgers part was pretty (literally) impressive; actors Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell and Jude Law took turns in playing the character of Tony.
In a nice touch, all three actors donated their salaries to Ledgers daughter Matilda after it was revealed that she was not in his will, as it was not updated before he unexpectedly died. This act was appreciated by the director Terry Gilliam, who said, “They didn't take money - it goes to Heath's daughter. That's extraordinary! And wonderful...we've got a movie full of wonderful people who did extraordinary things to help."
Terry Gilliam and Doctor Parnassus
Terry Gilliam garnered fame as part of the comedy group “Monty Python” in the 1960’s. He wrote and starred in what are now considered comedy classics, such as Monty Python’s Life of Bryan and Monty Python and the Holy Grail. As a director he also has an impressive back-catalogue, including, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Time Bandits and Twelve Monkeys.
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, which Gilliam wrote as well as directed, tells the story of, not surprisingly, Doctor Parnassus, who made one too many pacts with the Devil and now must pay the price and assess the morality of his life. “The Imaginarium” of the title refers to his travelling show, where he gives people the chance to pass through a magical mirror, into a world of their imaginations.
The movie also stars model Lily Cole, musician and actor Tom Waits, Verne Troyer and Christopher Plummer, who plays Doctor Parnassus.
The film had its premiere at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival held in May. It is due for general release in September 2009. The teaser trailer for the film can be seen here.
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