Stars finish Heath flick

Heath: Tragic accident

Farrell, Depp and Law. They may sound like a firm of solicitors but it's also the trio that will complete Heath Ledger's last film.

Ledger died of an accidental overdose in January while working on fantasy adventure The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus', directed by Terry Gilliam.

In a statement released yesterday, Gilliam announced that Colin Farrell, Johnny Depp and Jude Law would be stepping in to fill Heath's shoes.

'I am grateful to Johnny, Colin and Jude for coming on board,' he announced, 'and to everyone else who has made it possible for us to finish the film.

'I am delighted that Heath's brilliant performance can be shared with the world. We are looking forward to finishing the movie and, through the film, with a modicum of humility, being able to touch people's hearts and souls as Heath was able to do.'

There had been rumours that the film would be completed with CGI. A similar thing was done with Oliver Reed's performance in Gladiator, following the actor's death during making. However, the nature of the film is such that other actor's are able to step in.

'Since the format of the story allows for the preservation of his entire performance,' explained the producers, 'at no point will Heath's work be modified or altered through the use of digital technology.

'Each of the parts played by Johnny, Colin and Jude is representative of the many aspects of the character that Heath was playing.'

Ledger's family have given their blessing to the project. The film is expected to be released in 2009.

share this story: