I feel the time is right for me to post my theory that if correct, would shake the foundations of film as we know it. The theory being that Heath Ledger, respected hollywood actor, is not dead. Before you start comparing me with Monty Python please rest assured I have many points that come from the film that back this theory. They are as follows:

1. Heath Ledger was pronounced dead on January 22, 2008. The film was released on July 14, 2008. With months and months of post-production to put into the movie it would seem fitting that they would find a suitable demise for a charater that would not be reapperaring in the following films. They didn't even bother to throw him in a jail cell which would be suitable enough to keep him out of the inevitable third film. If they cut him out of the thrid film without a trace (much like nightcrawler in X-men 3) the result would be terrifying.
2. One of the most memorable parts of the film was the supposed death of Jim Gordan. Even though the character had not even taken the position as police comissioner, which he was supposed to do, every member of the audience was convinced he was gone. This proves that the team that worked on Dark Knight knows how to make a fake death seem completly possible to an audience.
3. The Joker is quoted in the film saying to batman "I think you and I are destined to do this forever." A line that could've easliy been cut givin the fact that they will not be doing this forever.
4. When batman throws the Joker off the roof of the Pruit Building, the Joker laughs thinking he is a dead man. Almost as if the death of the Joker is a big joke.
5. This film was made to break records, which it did. It did not however top the biggest shoker in movie history which is when Darth Vader told Luke he was his father. If my theory is true, an event that would bring Heath Ledger back from the dead would leave audiences saying "Darth Vader who?"
6. Both Lincoln and Elvis were on the list of batman suspects at the beginning of the film. Both have had conspiracy's surrounding their death. Could this be a clue of somekind? Who knows?In conclusion, I say that wheather I am right or wrong or wheater you belive me or not, I know for a fact that all who read this hope that this theory is true. Thanks for reading,Phil