Watch the first trailer for the emotional new Heath Ledger documentary

A new documentary focussing on the life of Heath Ledger has its first trailer. 

The film, entitled I Am Heath Ledger, features never-before-seen footage of the late actor, much of it shot by himself on a handheld camera we’re told was nearly always in his possession. He had an infectious grin, constantly messing around and was so clearly bursting with life. 

There are accounts from childhood friends, family members and former colleagues. Actor Ben Mendelsohn talks about the impact of Brokeback Mountain, for which the beloved Australian star was Oscar-nominated, while the movie’s director Ang Lee said of his screen presence: “Even as a supporting actor he will steal the whole show. That's the power of Heath Ledger.” 

Ledger, also known for his roles in A Knight’s Tale and Lords of Dogtown, as well as a masterful turn as the Joker in The Dark Knight, tragically died of an accidental prescription drug overdose in January 2008. He was just 28.

The trailer landed on 4 April, what would have been his 38^th birthday. 

I Am Heath Ledger will premiere at Tribeca Film Festival on 23 April, before airing on Spike TV on 17 May. It will also screen in select cinemas from 3 May.

[Main image: YouTube/Spike]