A potent mix of testosterone and stunning visuals

Rating: 8/10 (20 October 2010)

Zack Snyder's "300" is based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller, known for "Sin City" among other works. In the film, King Leonidas of Sparta (Gerard Butler) leads a group of 300 Spartan warriors to face the Persian army at Thermopylae circa 480 B.C. The story is based on historical fact but contains many embellishments in the name of dramatic license.
The film's main draw is its graphic-novel inspired visuals. I'm not familiar with the original book so I can't say exactly how much of the film's look comes from there but the results are, in a word, breathtaking. A large portion of the film employs blue- or green-screen technology so much of the look was achieved through CGI.
As for the acting, it's actually above average for an action movie. Gerard Butler is stalwart in the lead role, the lovely Lena Headey holds her own and Dominic West makes for a slimy villain. The smaller roles are populated capably, though I'm not overly fond of David Wenham's narration.
Snyder's direction is well-handled but he may have slavishly followed Miller's artwork for all I know. The score is suitably epic, like everything else about the movie. While the script contains some questionable lines it's not bad overall and shows some imagination.
Ultimately, "300" is the type of film that divides audiences. Some will say that it's senselessly violent and generally over the top. They may have a point but I, for one, think that the film's visuals greatly contribute to making this a rewarding modern epic. While it will probably find the most favour with popcorn-munching action junkies "300" should not be overlooked for its technical qualities.