Snyder/Miller's Stylish, Bloody Battle Epic

Rating: 9/10 (29 December 2009)

Here we having an epic winning combination: Zack Snyder (the 2004 re-imagining of DAWN OF THE DEAD) and Frank Miller (SIN CITY) collaborating on an epic action film based on historical events. The film adapted from Miller's graphic novel and, as I've discovered, Snyder was as accurate as possible while using the novel itself for the film's storyboards. In doing such, he has managed to capture the style of the source material perfectly and bring it to life. The film depicts the Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas of Sparta led 300 soldiers against 1 million Persians, led by Xerxes in his quest to further expand his empire.
The first thing I should mention (and I'm surprised I should even have to mention this): this is NOT a documentary and therefore is NOT 100% historically accurate. I've seen others slamming the movie because the film does not depict the events with complete accuracy. This is a film based on Frank Miller's stylized envisioning of the battle and it is a fiction film. So, watch it for fun and not for a research paper and you're in good shape. This film is a blast, loaded with stylish battles against in which the Spartan warriors take down everything the Persians have to throw at the Spartans, everything going well until they are ultimately betrayed. Bloody violence, hideous creatures, and slow motion to emphasize all the right moments...this is probably my favorite sword-n-sandals battle.
Gerard Butler is King Leonidas and he shows his potential to become one of modern cinemas great action stars. His Leonidas is a gritty, honor-driven warrior who is still able to show tenderness to his wife, Queen Gorgo (the beautiful Lena Headey). The majority of the supporting cast are interchangeable and you'll find yourself unable to determine who's who under the helmets and capes, though Rodrigo Santoro is an imposing presence as Xerxes. So, if you're in the mood for a creatively violent two hours and you're a fan of Frank Miller's storytelling, 300 will not disappoint.