Ledger's Oscar Knight

Heath Ledger plays the Joker

Heath Ledger is sure to win an Oscar after the world premiere of the new Batman film, The Dark Knight in New York.

A wave of sentimentality backed up by a haunting and heavily praised performance as the Joker has seen many predict the actor will win the award posthumously.

Co-star Sir Michael Caine, who plays Batman’s butler said; ‘It's the best performance of a villain I have seen.’ Then stars were talking as they walked down a black carpet, apt for both the darkness of the film and respect for Ledger.

Caine continued: ‘My feeling is that he will get a nomination, I would be very surprised if he didn't get the Oscar - he has my vote anyway.’

The film is dedicated to the actor, who died aged 28 after what the coroner described as an accidental drug overdose in January.

Gary Oldman, who plays Lieutenant Jim Gordon, said: ‘I haven't seen a villain like this, or a bad guy like this, since Dennis Hopper played Frank Booth in Blue Velvet - this out-scares Hannibal Lecter.’

Christian Bale, who plays Batman said: 'He immersed himself completely. He had just a fantastic time making this movie. I did, too, with him. We very much enjoyed watching each other, our performances, the immersion in it.

'He's created this anarchic, you know, Sid Vicious-like, punk rock Joker, unlike any Joker that's been seen before. I think it's a real classic portrayal that will be remembered for ages.'

Maggie Gyllenhaal who also stars in the film, added: 'I think that Academy Awards are great and feel great, but I think, you know, when you're thinking about Heath right now, and a whole life, it's not what I'm thinking about. I do think he's extraordinary in the movie and I'll vote for him.'

The Dark Knight is directed by Christopher Nolan will have its London premieres on 21 July, ahead of its UK release on 25 July.

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