#20 - Heath Ledger

Ok, so you're probably asking, "What exactly did Heath Ledger do to change the world in 2008?" Technically you're right, although Heath's death probably impacted each and every Australian in a different way.

When Heath died of an "accidental" drug overdose on January 22nd 2008, Australia lost an actor who, in death, became bigger than he would have ever become in life. I know, I'm speculating here, but you really do have to ask yourself..... If Heath didn't die, would his performance as The Joker in 'The Dark Knight' still have received the plaudits he is receiving today?

Touchy subject.

I've seen 'The Dark Knight' a couple of times, and I enjoy the film immensely. I believe that Heath's portrayal of The Joker is amazing (ugh, time for a new word), but must pose the question - Was it Golden Globe or Academy Award "amazing" (no, seriously, get a new word)?

History tells that "superhero" movies are rarely recognised at these types of awards, and 'The Dark Knight' really can't be considered anything more than a "superhero" movie. Come on, it's not going to be recognised for it's scintillating script, nor will Christian Bale's performance as Batman (anyone else notice that Batman has a nasty slur in his speech in the latest release?) be considered award worthy. So what make's Heath's role any different? He's dead, that's what.

Hollywood loves a fairytale, and while you're not going to find a prescription overdose in any of the fairytales you read your kids these days (although, you might, if Eminem is writing children's books), an Oscar for Heath would be a fitting way for the Academy to show they have heart.

It's funny to think that, in death, you can become bigger than you actually are. While the Dark Knight and Brokeback Mountain were huge successes, what other success did Heath really enjoy? Sure, Australian's are aware of 'Two Hands' and my personal Ledger favourite, 'Candy', but aside from an atrocious Ned Kelly remake and the deplorable "A Knight's Tale", only 10 Things I Hate About You springs to mind. (Noted - The Patriot and Monster's Ball).

So what did Heath do in 2008 that made him "change the world"? I guess we'll truly find out the extent to which he changed the world on February 22nd 2009, but I think it's obvious. Heath proved that the world does in fact love a fairytale, and it's likely this one will have a happy ending.

He also kind of reminded everyone that prescription drugs, when taken with other prescription drugs, can have a nasty side-effect - namely death.

There's also the off chance he was putting away one of the Olsen twins, so maybe that's teaching us all something too.

#19 - Not a Simpson, but a king nevertheless