300

Walking into the theatre, I was had an expectation of what the film 300 was about to bring me. And I must say: walking into a film with expectations is a dangerous thing. However, Zack Snyder delivers exactly what I had expected, and more. Thrilling visuals, coupled with stylistic camera techniques, and toped with a bit of sexuality, 300 brings excitement, pleasure and near pure testosterone to the entire audience.

This story, as adapted by screenwriter and graphic novelist Frank Miller, follows King Leonidas in his historic decision to disobey his own kingdom’s laws, and marches north with 300 of his best Spartan to defend against the invading Persian army. King and self proclaimed God Xerxes makes claim to Spartan land, and threatens to conquer and destroy all Spartan history unless the 300 submit to his power. Leonidas, unwilling to yield, defends against thousands of soldiers in the name of freedom, and his country.

But what makes this film special? What makes it any different than the regular crap that hits the screen, starring weak Irish actors that know nothing of war? The answer is simple: This is a story about war. Most of the recent war films are muddled with symbols, and political statements about current issues. Politicians take up half the screen time speaking about the good of the world. Though politicians do take screen time in this adaptation, very little time is given to highlight their efforts.

The film continues to fascinate audiences by developing this gruesome war scene by demonstrating it artistically. Powerful contrasts of light and dark, and beautiful visuals of women’s beauty help push this film away from the usual ‘death scene’ to eye-candy splendor. We are taken to an ancient world we are unfamiliar with, both historically and visually.

The film uses a technique rarely seen in other films: a coupling of speed-slow stop and go cinematography. As a soldier swings his weapon, the sword cuts through the air at amazing speed. As the weapon makes contact with the enemy soldier, the film is slowed down, accentuating the kill. When pit against thousands of men, this filmic technique brings interesting and enjoyable visuals to what could be considered an hour of ‘just flat out killing.’

Like its predecessor, Sin City, the visuals of the original graphic novel were closely followed in efforts to preserve the original story. Creativity, though, pulled the Spartans off the page, and placed them in a world of valor and beauty. It’s difficult to describe the film more than “an artistic retelling of King Leonidas, and his 300 men of death”, as the film really is a focus on the strength, skill, and deadliness of the battle. Breaks in the story offer us a tasteful side story involving treachery, treason, and sexuality.

The best way, though, to describe this film is this: it’s what you expect it to be. For me, it was what I expected it to be, and more. I was pleased with the battles, as they weren’t run of the mill swords clashing (no Lord of the Rings kiddy battles)! And a smile crossed my face as a beautiful woman (as an oracle) performs to predict the future. It’s a man’s movie fellas. Take that into account when deciding if the box office is your next destination. As for me: it won’t be worth another ticket, but certainly worth the second or third watch when it’s out on DVD.