in review… 300

Posted by admin on Mar 21, 2007 in Arts & Culture | 0 comments

Considering that I’ve been obsessed with the 480 BCE Battle of Thermopylae began since Comparative Civilizations class in high school, 300 was a long-awaited treat. Not familiar with the Battle? Let me bring you up to speed.

In 480 BCE, the Persian Empire spans much of the known world – with the notable exception of Greece. After his envoys are met with hostility, Emperor Xerxes begins a campaign against Greece. The Greek city-states, unwilling to unite, do nothing in preparation for the coming conflict.

Leonidas, king of Sparta, tries to persuade the citizens to let him attack the Persians on the coast. But because of their superstitions, the council of Sparta forbids Leonidas’ request. Consequently, Leonidas takes his personal bodyguard of 300 men to Thermopylae to hold off the Persians. The geography of Thermopylae forces the Persians to battle the Spartans in a small pass, which totally their superior numbers.

300 is not this historical account. The film, based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller of Sin City fame, takes the story and creates a work of art through the use of green screen and computer technologies. Whereas most films use CGI (Computer Generated Images), 300 creates realism by asking graphic artists to integrate the content of the scene into its design.

Miller’s account may not be completely accurate, but it’s definitely inspired by the history. Many of the storylines and dialogue are taken directly from historical accounts. The Spartans are portrayed as protecting freedom and democracy from tyranny. For the ancient Spartans, nothing was considered more honourable than a glorious death in a battle to protect their loved ones. The Greek city-states, inspired by the sacrifice and heroism of the Spartans, united and eventually stopped the Persian invasion. But what really separates the film from many others is its high-intensity mixed with its humour.

While visually amazing, 300 isn’t for everyone; it’s rated R for a reason. The simple, heroic storyline cuts back to Leonidas’ childhood and his wife’s experiences leading her people after he has left for Thermopylae. 300 is an extremely entertaining movie and is well on its way to being one of the most successful action epics in recent memory.