FUSE TV - 'I Am Heath Ledger' Director Talks Capturing the Actor's Genius Artistry in New Documentary

It's been almost a decade since the world tragically lost Heath Ledger, arguably one of the best actors of our time. In Spike's upcoming documentary I Am Heath Ledger (warning: mild spoilers ahead), we get to witness him for more than what we've come to known him for. Aside from acting in timeless films, he was also a doting father, a mischievous friend, a kind father and brother, and a man with an overbearing passion for his craft. It was about to transcend in from being in front of the big screen to behind it. 

"I honestly think the universe is off its axis," musician Ben Harper and close friend devastatingly says in the first minute of the movie. "I'm not supposed to be talking with you." From there, we are whisked away into the world of the late actor from his humble beginnings in Perth, Australia to his final days in Brooklyn, N.Y. There are heartwarming insights in beloved roles in 10 Things I Hate About You, The Patriot, Monster's Ball, Brokeback Mountain and more. There are also tender, gripping moments interwined, as the audience witnesses Harper's loving lullaby to Heath and Michelle Williams' daughter Matilda, a surprising reveal about Spider-Man and Heath trading his acting hat for a directing one. 

I Am Heath Ledger is a haunting movie that will drive you to dig deep into a well of emotions, but is a must-watch for any fan of the actor. Ahead of the documentary's premiere on Spike on May 17, we spoke with director Derik Murray about his mindset of trying to portray Ledger as intimately and personable as possible. Read what he told us about the actor's dream endeavors, his favorite film and working with his close friends and family.