300 Movie Review
300: STUNNING EPIC
300 is the awesome film depiction of Frank Miller’s graphic novel. The themes of the film are pride, teamwork, and that the underdog wins even when he loses. It has heart, spectacular fight scenes, and CG animation like you have never seen before.
King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) was raised as a Spartan warrior. When a Persian messenger comes to tell him and his people that they are to bow to Persia, Leonidas responds by killing the man and his companions. Before the King can go to war with Persia, he must get permission from the Oracle. When he is denied, he collects 300 of his best warriors and travels to stop the Persians. His town is left saying he has blasphemed by defying the Oracle. Theron (Dominic West), a fellow Spartan, seizes this opportunity to turn his people against the King. Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) requests a meeting with the counsel to get them to reconsider their position and send reinforcements to the King and his men. Meanwhile, Leonidas and his men take on Persians, Immortals, and others in the name of Sparta.
The tale is about the 480 B.C. Battle of Thermopylae. It is about these men’s unwillingness to back down in the name of their country. It is primitive in nature but strong in delivery. Their unity is inspiring, with even the position of each man’s shield meant to protect his fellow warriors. It is philosophical at the same time it is portraying graphic violence. Gerard Butler is intimidating and powerful as King Leonidas. Lena Headey does away with the stereotypical weak woman as Queen Gorgo. When asked what makes her think she can speak among men she replies, “Because only Spartan women give birth to real men.” That says it all. As for what you are seeing, where does reality start and illustration begin? It is sensual, striking, and innovative. For those poor few that haven’t seen Sin City, just know that Frank Miller is vivid with his imagination.
This story is about the battle and its place in history. It doesn’t have much depth. You aren’t meant to dig deep into its meaning. It portrays the mark Sparta left on the world. No more, no less.
300 is larger than life with fight scenes that make you feel as if you never witnessed one before this film. It is for the MTV generation but it is also a new classic that has left a considerable impression on the movie making industry.
Report Card:
Story-A
Acting-A
Visuals-A+
Originality/Innovation-A
Enjoyability Grade–A
DVD Extras-D
Overall Grade-A-
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