The much anticipated sequel to Batman Begins is set to release on July 18, 2008.

The movie has some additional buzz as it is late Heath Ledger’s last film.

Some speculation has been voiced as to whether Ledger’s preparation for the maniacal role of THE JOKER had anything to do with the tragedy that befell him.

HAMMER: Tonight, new and disturbing details about Heath Ledger`s obsessive and dark preparation for his role as The Joker in the new Batman film that haunted him before his death.

Welcome back to SHOWBIZ TONIGHT, TV`s most provocative entertainment news show. I`m A.J. Hammer in New York. Tonight, what Heath Ledger put himself through while preparing to be The Joker in the hotly anticipated new Batman film “The Dark Knight.” We are now learning that Heath reportedly locked himself in a London hotel room for six weeks practicing the faces, all the voices, even the laughs of The Joker. And he even kept journals of The Joker`s thoughts. Heath later talked about how he could barely function after he finished filming.

Joining us is “Access Hollywood” weekend co-anchor Shawn Robinson in Hollywood tonight. Also joining us Howard Bragman, founder of Fifteen Minutes Public Relations. Shawn, Howard, I do appreciate you both being here.

I mentioned this journal that Heath kept. Not so unusual for an actor but he was keeping notes about the The Joker`s psychology, some sick things were in this journal including things that The Joker might find funny like AIDS. Just truly, truly dark stuff. Shawn, really gives us an insight here into how involved Heath was for preparing for the psychotic character, doesn`t it?

SHAWN ROBINSON, WEEKEND CO-ANCHOR, “ACCESS HOLLYWOOD”: A.J., you`re absolutely right. And Heath had just, as you said, locked himself in this London hotel room by himself for six weeks practicing different laughs, different postures and what he was trying to do is make this character go beyond the makeup. Because when we think of The Joker, we do think of that signature white face and the red lips. More(CNN.com)

Batman Begins was masterfully shot and depicted, let’s hope that The Dark Knight does not disappoint.

Tags: bale, batman, casanova, comics, death, gotham, heath ledger, last film, ledger, overdose, sneak peek, spoiler, the dark knight, the joker, trailer

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