stylized visuals but a been there done that story

Rating: 5/10 (2 March 2008)

The plot to this movie wasn't anything unique. The story takes place in ancient times. The Persuians meet with the Spartans asking them to surrender. The Spartan King Leonidas kills them and raises an army of 300 to meet the Persuians at a narrow passageway near the ocean to head them off. For a couple of days there are able to hold off the massive Persuian army before a traitor does them in.
The visuals are pretty neat. The color is filtered to give it an older, duller look. The blood isn't as red. For fans of blood and gore, there are a lot of beheadings and dead bodies. Lots of people stabbed but not many close up shots. The fighting scenes have slow motion and just look cool. But the story isn't anything special.
FINAL VERDICT: I don't think it is as good as a lot of reviews on here have it. But, if you like violent action films, this is for you. The story just isn't smart enough to get a top rating from me.