Hail Queen of Sparta!

Rating: 8/10 (17 November 2009)

OK, 300 will never become my absolute favorite but it's enjoyable. Lots of battle scenes, lots of gore (I think I'm pretty desensitized about violence in films; bad thing!) and some funny "macho" moments. Even the Persian creatures are interesting to watch. I would argue it is not the best thing to see 300 guys in thongs (maybe some loincloth would have been better; and where is the armor? should they advertise six-packs so shamelessly?), but still the visual aspect of the movie is breathtaking. The sepia and crimson red are used ad nauseum, but it gives the film a simultaneous comic book / epic feeling. I remember some critic saying "I have never seen such beautiful chopped heads". I think she was right; no doubt the film is ground-breaking visually.
But even with the stunning visuals, what probably takes this film to a whole new level is Queen Gorgo. She is, without question, a strong, beautiful, charismatic and smart woman. It's pretty uncommon (yet) in films to see such a strong female character; so it was about time this happened. It's good because it sticks to the historical notions of the Spartan queen and it also empowers women somewhat. I believe she is way more interesting than any other character in the film (even Leonidas); even her "indiscretion" is justified, and I lost no admiration for her, especially by the way she "redeems" herself near the end of the film. Queen Gorgo should be used more as model for strong female characters (I'm tired of gorgeous kinky bimbo girls in movies!); it's one of the things mainstream films need badly.
Because the story is not perfect (and because of the controversy about the depiction of some Persians), the film loses 4 points. But because of Queen Gorgo's characterization, it wins back 2 points. Verdict: 8/10.