Gilliam Almost Canned ‘Imaginarium’ Following Ledger’s Death

“The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus” was almost canceled by director Terry Gilliam following Heath Ledger’s death in January 2008. The director felt they couldn’t continue production following the actor’s death. However, he was convinced to finish the film. Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell play Ledger’s character during certain scenes.

The movie follows an odd troop of actors led by Dr. Parnassus (Christopher Plummer) who owns a magical mirror that can put a person in their imagination. There’s a catch though. He had to make a deal with the devil to get the mirror and immortality.

Ledger had already completed all of his scenes outside of the Imaginarium before passing away, so Depp, Law, and Farrell filled in for the inside. The movie opens January 8.