300 [Blu-ray] Reviews

• The most spectacularly fundamental action film of all time (Critics go home!)

  
  By A11SPSEM08VIXX on 2007-03-11
  While war and violence are morally wrong in the abstract human philosophies, shifting cultural sensibilities, and our (USA) pampered day to day existence, It is still part of who we are and it seeps out through our art into our society. We are the way God made us or how we evolved biologically, depending on your views. Either way, we are a violent species. Even if that is lost in the day to day world we live in, there is still an appetite for it. Our art, video games, TV, media, and films serve it up. Since the critics are not artists it is hard for some of them to see the truth of this film and many others released in recent years. Their tunnel vision, sour grapes, or just angry twisted lives make many of them compelled to spit vile upon anything visionary, or even just decent. I have grown tired of reading angry reviews where the reviewer writes as though he or she knows better and almost seems to pity us ignorant peons, lemmings, or what even the hell they consider us to be. Myself, my family, and my friends are not idiots and no where, except perhaps with people who rarely see films, are such conceited, self-important, and egotistic views represented by the people I know within the word I live. This film was great, pure and simple. It will be remembered as a great action film long after the drivel action of the day is forgotten.
  
  300 holds you in it's grip from second one to the last scene. It is the sublime beauty of war that Joseph Campbell mentions in his works. Frank Miller has been an artist I have admired since I was a young boy. He has quietly been working away for the last several decades with no huge critical juggernaut coming down on him and suggesting he is pandering to any political dogma of the day. Now that the film is made, which is as close an adaptation as any author could hope for, the liberal critics are there, striking away at a work that spoke to Miller as a child. To suggest any political significance is reaching beyond ones wildest dreams. Real artists do not push political dogma, they represent what is in their soul and hearts. These news paper pandering nancy boys have nothing better to do than regurgitate hogwash in such a backwards fashion that even they themselves are just running in circles and making no real headway with what ever it is they think they should be doing to better this world. 300 is a film not a political movement. To criticize it as if it could convert people into middle East haters is just stupid. The Middle East and the USA do just fine gathering up enemies and haters all on their own. One small film, even one that would be an overt outright bash on either the East or the West would not sway the masses more than a drop in an ocean either way. To point out black and white racist overtones not intended is racist itself.
  
  As grand and spectacular as 300 is, it's still just entertainment for popular culture. It's stylized so much that to speak in terms of historical accuracy is just silly. Too many films of our times have passed themselves off as pseudo documentaries in order to effect some kind of cultural awakening or change when all they do is preach to the converted. Films are made in so many ways and varieties that it is just as amusing to watch the critics scramble between "Norbit" and "Flags of our Fathers" and all the while trying to maintain some level of intelligence rather than just reviewing films each on it's own merits for what it is and who it's trying to reach. Since so many films these days seem to annoy the critics I often wonder why they are film critics at all. They seem more suited to be writing angry complaint letters to companies about some busted back yard sprinkler. I want reviews, not angry critiques!
  
  Go away critics. You are not wanted. You are not needed. You are a sorry pitiful lot.
  
  A critique for the critics by a true film goer and viewer.
  
  

• A hyperstylized film adaptation of Frank Miller's graphic novel

  
  By A19VMQDCB4HZ9P on 2007-03-09
  I will get it out of the way and say that this was not and was not meant to be a historically accurate depiction of Ancient Greece. It was never meant to be even when it was still just an Eisner-Award winning graphic novel from the mind of iconic graphic novelist and artist Frank Miller. With that out of the way I was able to watch and enjoy Zack Snyder's film adaptation on its own terms without the criticism of historical accuracies looming dangerously over my head. 300 deserves the label of being the first event film of 2007. From start to finish, Snyder's film practically screams blockbuster and popcorn and I wouldn't have it any other way.
  
  Frank Miller's 300 was at its time an interesting depiction of one of history's greatest military last stands. Miller already known for hyperstylizing the look and feel of the noir genre with his Sin City graphic novels, takes the same approach with his depiction of King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans taking a final last stand against Persian God-King Xerxes at a narrow mountain pass called Thermopylae (literally meaning Hot Gates in Greek). Zack Snyder took this graphic novel and painstakingly stayed true to the visuals Miller and his colorist wife, Lynn Varley put on paper. Looking back at my memory of some of the panels and images from the graphic novel. Snyder and his crew of art directors, cinematographers and CGI-artists were successful in translating almost every page of the graphic novel onto the screen. Like Robert Rodriguez's adaptation of Miller's Sin City, Zack Snyder's 300 pretty much brings the graphic novel to moving life. This means he stuck to the source material quite literally which limits his own take on the graphic novel. And like Rodriguez Snyder doesn't really put his own signature stamp as a director to the film. It's not too much of criticism since he does a great job of translating Miller's work onto film, but one wonders what sort of personal touches he could've added to the finished look that wasn't lifted from Miller's style and whether it would've changed the overlook look and feel of the film.
  
  The story is quite simple and just takes the basic summary of the historical event itself. Spartan King Leonidas (played with visceral gusto and machismo by Scottish thespian Gerard Butler) makes a decision to go to war and confront the encroaching and fast approaching massive Persian Army led by Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) intent on conquering the Hellenic city-states of the Greek Peninsula. Persian ambassadors ride forth to demand oaths of fealty from those city-states ahead of the army's path. Sparta is one such city-state, but different from the rest of its Hellenic brethrens. Sparta has gone down in history as a word synonymous with unbending dedication to a strict, ascetic warrior code. Warfare and battle were what Spartans were born and trained to do from an early age. Weakness and physical imperfections weeded out from the time of birth (the film explains just what happens to male newborns with physical imperfections and deformities). The answer Leonidas gives the Persian delegation could be seen as somewhat extreme, but not contrary to his nation's warrior-culture of never surrendering and seeing death in battle the greatest glory for a Spartan to achieve. From this sequence right up to the end of the film we get to see just how much of a warrior culture the Spartans were in extreme detail.
  
  It's during the prolonged battle scenes between Leonidas' Spartans and Xerxes army which will have everyone chomping at the bit. If you have to see this film for any particular reason outside of watching superbly-trained underdogs slaughtering and endless supply of enemy troops then you will most likely be disappointed by the slower scenes away from Thermopylae. Indeed, this film and its original source material would've worked even better without the extra filler Snyder and his writers added to give the film more depth. I'm all for more emotional depth and characterization in my films but when a movie is all about a bloody and heroic last stand of a few against the many, scenes which slow the story down does more to break the rhythm and tone of a film than add to it. Other than a deeper understanding of the kind of partnership Leonidas had with his Gorgo, his Spartan Queen, most of the subplots added by Snyder and his writers could easily have been left out and still get a kick ass action epic.
  
  It's the action scenes which reall stand out visually. Some people might see the style tricks of speed ramping certain action sequences then slowing it down considerably to show the minute detail of the battle scene as being to gimmicky, but I would disagree and say it actually gives the movie a fable-like quality in its storytelling. One thing I have to say about Zack Snyder as a director (his remake of George A. Romero's Dawn of the Dead better than what detractors have made it out to be) is that he knows how to film action and with special mention to bloody and gory action. He makes these scenes of dismemberments, decapitations, and disembowlments look like a piece of performance art. These scenes of carnage would be considered extremely gratuitious if it didn't look so computer-enhanced good. Even the way the blood flows, spurts and splashes look like something Jackson Pollock would take interest in. The speed up and slow down of the sequences also gives the fight scenes a certain rhythm that once an audience picks up on will follow it through to the end. This is why the scenes back in Sparta with a duplicitous politician and his powerplay to assume control and power seem such a downer instead of enhancing the sacrifice of Leonidas and his men. Those scenes just feel tacked on and completely superfluous. Luckily, there's not enough of them to slow down the frantic pace developed by the battle itself.
  
  The performances by all actors involved really doesn't require too much criticism or reflection over. Gerard Butler does a great and convincing job as the Spartan King and his conviction in confronting Xerxes and his army with so few seem very believable. It's not a star-making performance but it does show that Butler can add a bit of gravitas to a character and role so basic in characterization. Lena Hedley is radiant as his partner and Queen. Despite the weird sounding name of Gorgo, Hedley plays the strong-minded and equally influential wife to Butler's Leonidas. It's only her scenes back in Sparta as she tries to rally her people to support their king which keeps these slower sequences from fully pulling down the film. Really, the performances are just done good enough to keep the acting from becoming too campy or too serious. It's an action film and with enough action going on in the movie I could forgive the writers (both Miller and the screenwriters) from scrimping on character build up.
  
  All in all, Zack Snyder's film adaptation of Frank Miller's 300 succeeds in bringing the book to moving life. Throughout the run of the film it was hard not to get lost in the beautiful visuals. Whether it was the muted color pallette which puts most of the scenes in an almost sepia-tone look to over-emphasizing certain colors to set a certain mood. From oversaturation of reds in one sequence to one where everything seem to be tinted with the many shades of blues at night. This is what 300 will be best remembered for. It's technical use of CGI to paint the environment in unrealistic but beautiful ways which gives the scenes a 3-dimensional look to them when the actors are superimposed over them. The film really is a painting come to life and it shows once again how computer technology has now afforded directors in making what used to be impossible logistically to something that could be done with the limit being the artist's imagination.
  
  This movie will not win many acting, directing and even screenwriting awards, but it doesn't have to for people to enjoy it. It will entertain and pull its audience into a living and modern retelling of a legend. Whether all that happened on the screen was exactly as it happened in 480 B.C. doesn't matter. What it does show is that through retelling down the years even all the embellishments added to the story of Leonidas and his men doesn't diminish the fact that they did something heroic. For those excited to see 300 I am preaching to the choir. For those who are not quick to fall to the hype given the film I still recommend it for the epic spectacle Snyder and his band of filmmakers have put on the screen.
  
  

• Do not listen to the ignorant comments of those who bash either format

  
  By A2WA8TDCTGUADI on 2007-07-04
  EDIT: since someone tried to insult me for saying that the picture and sound should be identical, here is a note from Hi-Def Digest:
  
  "Both the BD-50 Blu-ray and HD DVD/DVD combo versions will feature identical 1080p/VC-1 transfers and, in a welcome move from Warner, matching Dolby TrueHD (48kHz/16-bit) 5.1 surround tracks."
  
  *************
  
  Don't let people sway your opinion with their ignorant comments about HD DVD or Blu-Ray. Buy the format that you prefer and be happy with it.
  
  I have both Blu-Ray and HD DVD and find that they are exactly equal in picture quality. In cases like "300," and a few other titles, the HD DVD has more features or unique features, but that doesn't matter to many people. If you read the specifications for the disc and find that you really believe that the extra features make one format or the other more attractive, then you should go with that disc.
  
  The HD DVD version of "300" has some sort of blue screen, no CGI, feature or something... I won't be watching that at any time, as I just don't care about it. For me it just comes down to price. I will buy whichever format has the movie I want at the best price. The Blu-Ray version is $4 cheaper than the HD DVD version right now... if the extra features on the HD DVD are worth $4 or more, buy the HD DVD version. If the extra features on the HD DVD version are not worth $4, buy the Blu-Ray disc.
  
  THE PICTURE AND SOUND SHOULD BE IDENTICAL. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE SHOULD BE THE EXTRAS.
  
  If you only have a player for one format, be happy with that format and leave the other alone. All of you on BOTH sides of this bashing stuff are acting like little children who want to be big bullies and I find it ridiculous. I refuse to pick a side, as I benefit from BOTH sides and purchase contents for BOTH formats.
  
  There are two formats and it is going to stay that way. Universal players will be released soon enough and those of you who don't have players will be able to buy a single player to play all content. That is the solution to this ridiculous bickering; co-existence.
  
  

• Unbiased Format Opinion

  
  By A1FGEY7R1QQ267 on 2007-07-06
  For those of you who came to read reviews of this movie only to be bombarded by format "War"riors let me try to set the record straight for some people who don't know. I am not partial to either format, I own players and discs of both formats.
  
  I will be in line to buy this movie on HD-DVD opposed to Blu-ray and here is why.
  
  Don't believe all the hype of Blu-ray having better picture and audio. NOT TRUE, in any instance I can think of where the studio releases a movie on both formats, they will use the same master to transfer the video on both formats. Therefore you are down to the codecs used on each format which will give HD-DVD (which uses the VC-1 codec) a slight edge over Blu-ray. Blu-Ray will rarely use VC-1(which is usually better) and often use the older MPEG-2 or MPEG-4 codecs.
  
  As for sound, there is rarely an instance where a movie available on HD or BR will have a superior audio track on BR unless it has the uncompressed PCM audio. For some reason many studios skimp in this department with few exceptions on their BR release and give them a meager Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround at 640kbps, while encoding the HD-DVD with Dolby Digital TrueHD at (1.5 Mbs). With the extra capacity Blu-Ray totes, it means nothing if they don't use it.
  
  The truth of the matter is, both formats will most likely be around for a while. If a studio releases a film in both formats you will most likely have to compare the two and decide which is better based on the video codec and audio track available on each disc, the better quality audio and video will usually be on the HD-DVD not to mention features, extras, internet connectivity and the "In Movie Experiences ("IME") which Blu-Ray is not capable of yet as of this writing.
  
  Now for the final deciding factor, after all I have mentioned, if a movie available in both formats is encoded with identical audio, video, extra features etc. which one will I purchase if the price is close....
  
  Blu-Ray. I feel the Blu-Ray has a better scratch resistant coating on it's surface whereas the HD-DVD has the same coating as a regular DVD which will scratch fairly easily, even when wiped with a proper cloth. I have also noticed, that dust seems to stick to the HD-DVD more readily than the Blu-Ray discs.
  
  On 300, the audio and video specs are identical on both formats. However, this HD-DVD will be a winner over Blu-Ray because of the extra features Blu-Ray will not have. Another example is Blood Diamond only due to extra features.
  
  Lastly, I don't like combo discs. They cost more when I won't use the standard definition side. It deters customers with its inflated price and hurts HD-DVD's overall sales at a time when they need to be selling as many discs as possible.
  
  By the way, 300 is a good movie and contrary to some misinformation in other reviews, THIS DISC WILL PLAY IN A STANDARD DVD PLAYER because it is a COMBO DISC!!!!
  
  Hope this review helps those of you who are new to the High Definition world or those not into following the entire hubbub and marketing ploys of the formats.
  
  
  

• I Am Wowed!

  
  By A37E6RW5BUX4U0 on 2007-04-02
  I went to this movie solely to see Gerard Butler as I am a huge fan. If he wasn't in it I definitely wouldn't have paid to see it at the theater and chances are I wouldn't have worked real hard to see it on DVD, either. It is not at all the type of film I normally flock to or enjoy, but I was more than pleasantly surprised at how much I thoroughly enjoyed this film.
  
  This is probably one of the most visually appealing movies I have seen in a long time. It was like watching artwork come to life, a feast for the eyes. The acting was excellent; Gerard Butler was a strong and commanding lead as King Leonidas. He was a physically imposing warrior, leading his men to battle, yet there were surprisingly tender and human moments as well. Lena Headey managed to portray Queen Gorgo as a strong, powerful woman, while maintaining extreme femininity. King Xerxes was by far the most flamboyant of characters, his costume was of multiple piercings and jewels, he exuded arrogance and narcissism. A powerful man, who referred to himself as God, was made complete by his large size and deep voice.
  
  I was expecting an overly violent blood bath of a film. Truth be told, I was surprised at its lack of violence. A lot of the violence is implied and then you see the flinging and spurting of blood. There were only a few scenes where I actually cringed or had to shut my eyes. There were even a handful of touching moments that made me weepy, another unexpected. The music was another unforeseen enjoyment. It flowed seamlessly from hauntingly beautiful chant like choruses to powerfully driven techno beats. I liked the music so much, that I remained after the movie to watch the credits and find out who did the soundtrack.
  
  Is this movie historically accurate? Will the History Channel be airing it as a documentary meant to educate the masses on the Spartans, the Persians and the battle of Thermopylae? Absolutely not. I went to see a movie based on a comic book, loosely based on history and that's what I saw. 300 is a very entertaining movie and I will definitely be purchasing it on DVD.
  
  
  
• 300: Inspiring Tale Magnificently Told
  By A1VJ7HYM1EC94M on 2007-03-11
  A more intense shot of testosterone you will not find in any film. Equal parts bravado, guts and glory, "300" is simply the most exciting film to come out this year - or in several. Criticized for its violence and gore, fans of Miller's graphic novels will find that violence and gore to be as beautifully depicted on the screen as in the print version. A highly hyped CGI affair the cast could easily have been overcome by the sheer impressiveness of the physical production. To his credit director Zack Snyder is blessed with and uses a cast every bit equal to the challenge of competing with Miller's dark fantastic take of the Spartan's greatest story.
  
  Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera, Dear Frankie, etc.) adds yet another impressive and wildly different character to his arsenal of screen roles. As Leonidas, King of Sparta, Butler is, from his pigtail to his muscled, sandled feet, every inch a king; a true leader of men. His passion and intensity is matched by a splendid performance by Lena Headey as his wife, Queen Gorgo. Though a dutiful wife and a woman in an age when being such was near equal to slave status, she is, in her way, as bold and fearless as her husband/King. Dominic West is properly evil and oily as the traitor Theron and he's as nasty and duplicitous a villain as one can hope for. Rodrigo Santoro as a larger-than-life Xerxes is both comical and fearfully creepy equal parts drag queen and wanna be god. Behind all the glitzy piercings and bling, he is little more than self-inflated egotistical child.
  
  While there is blood and gore aplenty, the film also happens to be emotionally satisfying and I found myself with tears welling up in my eyes more than a few times, as well as wanting to raise my fist in the air along with the jacked-up Spartans! While a macho stoicism pervades their attitudes, there are, to be sure, signs of a greater humanity beneath those ripped abs of Sparta's army - and plenty of heart.
  
  Parallels and allegories are already being drawn between today's warring world climate, super power dominations and the world of ancient Greece and the Middle East. While this provides an interesting commentary, I heartily recommend leaving that baggage at home and appreciating "300" on its own and embracing its escapism.
  
  Larry Fong's cinematography ensures that "300" is eye-poppingly glorious from start to finish - a magnificent feast for the eyes while Tyler Bates's score is guaranteed to keep your adrenaline pumping as it matches - frame-for-frame the visual intensity presented on the screen. While critics are divided on this one, audiences are flocking to it and cheering. For good reason, too: "300" is magnificent old-fashioned story telling wed to the very best 21st century filmmaking has to offer. See it!
  
  
• I Am Spartan! Hear Me Roar!
  By A18G7GG53G2X8A on 2007-03-10
  Ah, to be male in Ancient Greece: "300" is a testosterone-driven fantasy in which all men are fearless warriors, driven by the need for battle and bloodshed. War is depicted as gloriously as any geek loner-type could hope for, with every soldier being the epitome of strength, courage, and physical brute force. Emotional bonding, sensitivity, and compassion don't even come into play; these men were trained to be ruthless killing machines, all in the name of preserving the glory of Sparta. This would no doubt be a ridiculous film if the story were presented in a straightforward, mainstream way. But straightforward and mainstream, "300" is not; this is pure, hard-driving escapism, from the frenetic battle sequences to the elaborate special effects to the over the top performances. In this sense, it's absolutely brilliant.
  
  And it gets even better. Every shot, every setting, and every event is accentuated by a look so stylized that it's practically a living duplicate of Frank Miller's original graphic novel. This was achieved through computer-generated imagery, which was responsible for creating most of the film's locations. Bluescreen technology--also utilized for another incredible Miller adaptation, 2005's "Sin City"--made for a majority of the sets, leaving very little for the actors to actually work with. I can only imagine the effort that went into post-production, the endless hours of crafting landscapes, characters, and special effects all with the click of a mouse. The work paid off; the end product is an effectively heightened reinterpretation of reality, a kind of living illustration that transcends any sense of time or place. It's the perfect look for war story of this caliber, something so grandiose and overplayed that you can't get enough.
  
  The plot is fairly simple: it's a retelling of the 480 BC Battle of Thermopylae, in which the Spartans fought against the Persians. King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and his army of a mere 300 soldiers are ready to defend their land against the evil King Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro). This is despite the fact that 1) they don't have the blessing of the gods to go to war, and 2) they will fight against an army of over one million. But this matters not; Spartan males are trained to be warriors at a very early age, essentially the day that they're born (only the largest, strongest newborns are spared; the small, sickly ones are unceremoniously thrown off of a cliff). They are taught the fine art of combat. They are made to take all kinds of physical pain, including lashings. They are conditioned to never retreat, even when facing insurmountable odds. Leonidas successfully survived such rigorous training (his first major battle was against a monstrous wolf with glowing eyes), as did the rest of his men. Now, they are ready for battle.
  
  And after taking position near a beachfront cliff, the Spartans engage in ferocious battle with the Persians. Never on film has war been so much fun to watch. This is probably because each sequence was beautifully photographed; even graphic shots of stabbings, amputations, and decapitations are so artfully constructed that it's hard to accept them as deplorable. The bodies of Persian soldiers are used to construct a blockade of surprising strength. Blood spatters from gaping wounds in dark, unrealistic globules, effectively looking more like spots of ink. There's a moment when arrows fly through the air in numbers so vast, they block the light of the sun. Nearly every shot is drawn out, often going in slow motion to show how carefully choreographed the gratuitous violence is.
  
  The Spartans also fight against the Immortals, an army of ghastly yet fantastical creatures with an appetite for destruction. They were appropriately crafted as one-dimensional barbarians, made more effective because of their appearances; they wear long black robes, and their pale, monstrous faces are hidden behind Tragedy-style silver masks. Where they came from is anyone's guess. I suppose it doesn't really matter, especially since they pave the way for a number of other ghoulish creatures that would give the creations of Clive Barker a run for their money. They--and every aspect of the film, for that matter--make it obvious that the real emphasis is on style instead of story, which under different circumstances would make for a miserable experience. But in this case, it works quite well; while a definite story is being told, it would be of little significance were it not for the special effects.
  
  This isn't to say that the story of "300" is bad. Quite the opposite: despite being simplistic, the story is quite strong, especially when a couple of subplots are factored in. Back in Sparta, Leonidas' wife, Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey), is up against a corrupt Senate, already bought out by the Persians in order to ensure Sparta's stability. The arrogant and treacherous Theron (Dominic West) is clearly not ready to handle a woman of such strength, especially since she fully supports Leonidas and Sparta's involvement in the war. Because she intends to plead to the Council for the deployment of more soldiers, Theron challenges her authority by exclaiming that her words will fall on deaf ears.
  
  Another subplot involves Ephialtes (Andrew Tiernan), a hunchbacked, hideously deformed Spartan who begs to join with Leonidas and fight against the Persians. Leonidas appreciates his passion, but refuses to let him fight; he's unable to lift his shield, and this would only create a weak spot in their defense system. Feeling rejected, Ephialtes personally appeals to Xerxes, who promises a wealth of power, money, and pleasure in exchange for loyalty. This scene takes place in Xerxes' den, in which a throng of misshapen creatures engages in an orgy. Before "300," I never would have believed that any film could include such a scene, or at least a scene that would work in any way, shape, or form. I was wrong; it was a fascinating scene, forcing the viewer to reassess what is beautiful and what is ugly.
  
  The film is narrated by Dilios (David Wenham), a Spartan soldier with a hard-edged masculinity that shines through despite a deceptively soft voice. He recalls Leonidas, Sparta, and the Battle of Thermopylae with eloquence; when considering the heavy-handedness of war, this is no small task. Yet he always gives a perfect delivery, and that only strengthens the appeal of "300." This is in a world all its own, a world dominated by battle cries, sword fights, and bare-chested men that are ripped like bodybuilders. It's all thanks to Frank Miller, whose creative vision has allowed for a truly unique theatrical experience. If he creates another graphic novel, I can't wait for it to be adapted for the big screen.
  
  
• This is Sparta!
  By A1D2C0WDCSHUWZ on 2007-06-02
  Frank Miller adaptations are on a roll. First we got "Sin City," and now we have the story of three hundred Spartans who repelled a massive invasion.
  
  And the adaptation of "300" is a stunning one -- literally stunning, since it bombards the viewer with larger-than-life characters, smashing visuals and tight direction. It goes a bit too fast for its own good, but it's a truly epic film that takes the historical war movie to another level -- all the more so because it actually happened.
  
  As the introduction tells us, the Spartans were the ultimate warrior people. Babies were inspected for weakness or faults, and killed if they had any; as they were growing up, they were taught and toughened by a savage regimen. Their only true hope was to "die beautifully" for their land.
  
  A Persian messenger arrives, telling King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) that the god-king Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) wants the Spartans to bow to him. Leonidas' response: shove the Persians into a pit. But before he can go to war, he must consult the corrupt priesthood of Ephors and their beautiful Oracle. She predicts that Sparta will fall and the gods forbid war at the approach of the Carneaian festival -- courtesy of a hefty bribe from a Spartan traitor.
  
  So Leonidas takes out three hundred of his best men, along with their nervy Arcadian allies, and begin trouncing the Persians. But they are being sabotaged, both by a hunchbacked outcast and by a treacherous councilor, whom Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) is battling. And so at Thermopylae, Leonidas prepares for a final battle against the monstrous Persian Army -- knowing that their story of freedom will live on.
  
  This is not a "sensitive" movie where you have any appreciation for the bad guys -- it's a glorification of three hundred soldiers who died for their land and freedom. It just wouldn't work otherwise. It doesn't blindly adore the Spartans -- we see their darker side in their "weed out the weak" policy -- but it does appreciate them. They respect and care about each other, and Leonidas is as kind as he can be even to Ephialtes, the traitor.
  
  And it's done in a manner appropriate to its comic book origins -- grimy, bloody and epic, but with a stylized look that is almost like CGI. The battles are shockingly good, and full of fantasy-ish creations like the monstrous creatures or the silver-masked Immortals. Even a wall of corpses. But we also get some beautiful visuals as well -- roiling seas, sunlit battlefields, Spartan cities, and the drugged Oracle in her white veil.
  
  While the script gets a bit over-the-top at times, it's hard not to be moved by dialogue that can be darkly funny ("It's just an eye. The gods saw fit to grace me with a spare") or stirring ("He did not wish tribute, nor song, or monuments or poems of war and valor. His wish was simple: "Remember us." That was his hope, should any free soul come across that place, in all the countless centuries yet to be").
  
  Butler and Headey are simply great as Leonidas and Gorgo -- they're both strong, passionate and fearless, and they both do a great job in their separate storylines. But the movie is filled with good performances -- David Wenham as the narrator, Dominic West as a disgusting traitor, Santoro as the decadent, arrogant god-king, and many others.
  
  This version contains both the regular and high-def versions, and apparently contains a small wealth of extras -- featurettes about the history of Thermopylae and the 300 Spartans, photo galleries, info on the Spartan culture, commentary, deleted scenes, and info on Frank Miller (who, of course, wrote the original graphic novel). It's sort of the decorative icing on a cake -- not necessary to enjoy the film, but it makes it just a bit better.
  
  "300" is a unique, stirring, stunning movie that pushes the action-movie envelope, and gives a thrilling edge to a real-life story of overwhelming power. A brilliant movie.
  
  
• Taking Trash Seriously
  By A2PR6NXG0PA3KY on 2007-11-21
  Spectacular achievement in "capturing" the essence of the graphic novel in cinematography! Juggling stillness and motion! Encasing little vignettes of human beings - the very understated meeting between the two Greek forces on the road, for instance - within the superhuman epic setting. There is something of Homer in it.
  
  Having said what I could in admiration of 300, now I can declare that I hated it. It's trash. It's meant to be trashy, a glitzy slather of masturb_tory illusion in High Definition. Of the three "sex" scenes, for example, two are submissive rapes. The few images of children are clearly sadistic. The blood splattering is not intended for the viewer interested in Greek history as such. Okay, hey, I can appreciate trash when I'm in the mood. But this trash is packaging racism and bigotry.
  Item: Xerxes is portrayed as a gay African-American wrapped in bling. So are his ambassadors. The Persian elite soldiers are an "oriental" horde, faceless devils swarming all over "our freedoms". "They hate our freedoms"; remember who said that? Why must the defense of freedom be confounded with hatred and comtempt for the "Other"? Isn't it just another case of our martyrs being heroes while their martyrs are terrorists?
  
  So why should I make a big deal of the message, if the movie is just trashy entertainment? Because the movie makes its own big deal of preaching "our" special dedication to freedom, of the moral superiority of the West to the East, of the heroism of the few and the brave against the evil masses of those who aren't like us. Sparta was a slave society, friends, and a particularly rigid one. That's the "freedom" those martyrs were defending. The freedom to hate and enslave others.
  
  So why did I watch it if it was trash? Because my teenage son wanted me to see it. That's also the reason why I'm taking it seriously.
  
  Months later: The comments that have been attached to this review are more interesting than the movie. People take their flicks seriously! More seriously than politics, science, or history, as you can see by checking reviews of any books on those subjects.
  
  
• Don't listen to people who bash one HD format or the other
  By A2WA8TDCTGUADI on 2007-07-04
  EDIT: since someone tried to insult me for saying that the picture and sound should be identical, here is a note from Hi-Def Digest:
  
  "Both the BD-50 Blu-ray and HD DVD/DVD combo versions will feature identical 1080p/VC-1 transfers and, in a welcome move from Warner, matching Dolby TrueHD (48kHz/16-bit) 5.1 surround tracks."
  
  *************
  
  Don't let people sway your opinion with their ignorant comments about HD DVD or Blu-Ray. Buy the format that you prefer and be happy with it.
  
  I have both Blu-Ray and HD DVD and find that they are exactly equal in picture quality. In cases like "300," and a few other titles, the HD DVD has more features or unique features, but that doesn't matter to many people. If you read the specifications for the disc and find that you really believe that the extra features make one format or the other more attractive, then you should go with that disc.
  
  The HD DVD version of "300" has some sort of blue screen, no CGI, feature or something... I won't be watching that at any time, as I just don't care about it. For me it just comes down to price. I will buy whichever format has the movie I want at the best price. The Blu-Ray version is $4 cheaper than the HD DVD version right now... if the extra features on the HD DVD are worth $4 or more, buy the HD DVD version. If the extra features on the HD DVD version are not worth $4, buy the Blu-Ray disc.
  
  THE PICTURE AND SOUND SHOULD BE IDENTICAL. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE SHOULD BE THE EXTRAS.
  
  If you only have a player for one format, be happy with that format and leave the other alone. All of you on BOTH sides of this bashing stuff are acting like little children who want to be big bullies and I find it ridiculous. I refuse to pick a side, as I benefit from BOTH sides and purchase contents for BOTH formats.
  
  There are two formats and it is going to stay that way. Universal players will be released soon enough and those of you who don't have players will be able to buy a single player to play all content. That is the solution to this ridiculous bickering; co-existence.
  
  
• "Give them nothing but take from them...everything!"
  By A2HVL790PBWYTU on 2007-03-09
  As a guy, if this film doesn't get your blood churning and your testosterone pumped up to a deliriously critical level, well, you're either dead inside or you're a Tibetan monk with complete mastery over your cardiovascular and hormonal systems. 300 is a man's man's man's flick and is a muscular love poem which celebrates the ideals of honor, courage, sacrifice, and standing up for your beliefs. Righteous stuff.
  
  Not being much of a history buff, the only famous last stands I can instantly come up with are the Battles of the Alamo, of the Little Big Horn, and of Thermopylae (I guess I could also throw in Game 7 between the Lakers and the Blazers, 2000). Of these, the legendary Battle of Thermopylae is the most dramatic and is the mother of all last stands. I first heard about the Battle of Thermopylae (480BC) and the 300 Spartans way back when I was in high school, and I thought it a nifty story from the very first. A few years ago, I read Frank Miller's graphic novel 300 and enjoyed it tremendously, not caring at all that he altered things here and there as he opted instead to focus on the story's artistry, its sense of grandeur, and its mythological aspects. The filmmakers, make no mistake, take their cue from Mr. Miller. Remnants of historical facts are still somewhat represented under the film's glossy veneer but with some tweaking. You just have to see past the somewhat ridiculous parade of grotesque LORD OF THE RINGS-like creatures which Xerxes and director Zack Snyder send out.
  
  SPOILERS begin now:
  
  The film itself begins with the voiceover detailing the austere Spartan credo as we watch a baby boy quickly transition thru several phases of maturation as he grows into a young man, all the while being instructed and severely tested in the extremely brutal and uncompromising warrior ways of his people. We see him confronting his final test and craftily passing it, thus officially entering the ranks of Spartan soldierhood. This young man is Leonidas, who will become the king of the Greek city-state, Sparta.
  
  We pick up decades later as a Persian emissary pays a visit to King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and his proud, beautiful wife and Queen, Gorgo (Lena Headey). The Persian calls for Sparta's submission to Xerxes, the God-King of Persia. After some deliberation, Leonidas's response isn't as much couched in diplomacy as it's couched in a sandal which propels the haughty emissary into a deep pit. Then, against the wishes of a lecherous, inbred group of mystics (who, nevertheless, control the Oracle) and the wishy-washy Spartan council, Leonidas gathers the 300 most capable soldiers in Sparta and, armed with a clever strategic plan, marches away to take on the vast hordes of the Persian invasion. If you've read your Greek history, you know what happens next...
  
  End SPOILERS.
  
  300 is bold in its scope and relentless in its take-no-prisoners attitude. It is a sweeping and sumptuously stark visual feast and would've made Frank Frazetta cream on his canvas. If 300 is based on Frank Miller's work (and it is), then Miller's art has to have been influenced in some ways by the great Frazetta. The film is saturated in mostly monochromatic hues which lend luster and even more drama to the bold crimsons of the Spartans' cloaks and the frequent spatters of blood and guts. I'm not normally a fan of slo-mo sequences, but I have to admit that, this time, the slo-mo-abruptly-segueing-into-fluid-motion (yeah, I think that's the technical term) bits are nicely executed and result in more thrilling battle scenes. The sword/spear fights are so stylized anyway that, after a while, they resemble a form of ballet. But a manly ballet, with hair on it. And, I don't often mention music in relation to films, but composer Tyler Bates truly adds an extra dimension of thrills with his thundering, pulse-pounding score. For sure, I'm gonna own this soundtrack.
  
  Gerard Butler comes into his own here. With his compelling and righteous performance, with towering machismo sweating out of his pores, he out-GLADIATORs Russell Crowe and, by comparison, reduces that silly ponce into a puddle of wussiness. No doubt, you and I'll be directly quoting from Leonidas in days to come: "This...is...SPARTA!" or "Tonight, we dine in Hell!" or (my favorite) "Give them nothing but take from them...everything!" As Leonidas, Butler displays all the innate qualities of leadership necessary to command an elite force like the Spartans, he's very convincing. Yet, his fierce and uncompromising temperament and his joy in battle are tempered by the obvious love and respect he holds for his wife. Whether knowingly or unknowingly, by his ideals and actions, he paved the way for the Greeks eventually routing the Persian masses.
  
  Lena Headey as the beleaguered Queen proves to be a match for Leonidas as she attempts to fight tooth and nail on the homefront to get the council off its collective arses and muster reinforcements for her husband. As Gorgo, Headey works hard to be fierce, dedicated, intelligent, and realistic. The actress is successful as I never doubted for a sec that this resolute woman is a Spartan to the very core. Her main adversary is the virulent Theron (Dominic West), a politician who reeks of underhandedness while holding a certain resemblance to Harry Hamlin. Brazilian actor Rodrigo Santoro has a showy but crucial part as the towering and deep-voiced King Xerxes.
  
  In the world of sword-and-sandal cinema, 300 quickly separates itself from the likes of TROY and ALEXANDER. I'd place it at the same excellent level as GLADIATOR. The story is unmatchable in its timelessness and resonance, the action is non-stop and visually compelling, the images are oh-so-memorable, and the lead characters are mezmerizing. And, from a mythological standpoint and in terms of cultural impact, the brave yet tragic 300 Spartans strike a chord as no other heroes do as they continue to be a testament to steadfast loyalty and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. "Go tell the Spartans..."
  
  
  
• Amazing movie, perfect for Blu ray
  By A2D63YVNIA9027 on 2007-07-02
  I'm buying the Blu ray version because it's affordable considering I have a PS3 and don't need to spend anymore for a player. Can't go wrong with that.
  
  
• THIS IS SPARTA!
  By A1D2C0WDCSHUWZ on 2007-07-09
  Frank Miller adaptations are on a roll. First we got "Sin City," and now we have the story of three hundred Spartans who repelled a massive invasion.
  
  And the adaptation of "300" is a stunning one -- literally stunning, since it bombards the viewer with larger-than-life characters, smashing visuals and tight direction. It goes a bit too fast for its own good, but it's a truly epic film that takes the historical war movie to another level -- all the more so because it actually happened.
  
  As the introduction tells us, the Spartans were the ultimate warrior people. Babies were inspected for weakness or faults, and killed if they had any; as they were growing up, they were taught and toughened by a savage regimen. Their only true hope was to "die beautifully" for their land.
  
  A Persian messenger arrives, telling King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) that the god-king Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) wants the Spartans to bow to him. Leonidas' response: shove the Persians into a pit. But before he can go to war, he must consult the corrupt priesthood of Ephors and their beautiful Oracle. She predicts that Sparta will fall and the gods forbid war at the approach of the Carneaian festival -- courtesy of a hefty bribe from a Spartan traitor.
  
  So Leonidas takes out three hundred of his best men, along with their nervy Arcadian allies, and begin trouncing the Persians. But they are being sabotaged, both by a hunchbacked outcast and by a treacherous councilor, whom Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) is battling. And so at Thermopylae, Leonidas prepares for a final battle against the monstrous Persian Army -- knowing that their story of freedom will live on.
  
  This is not a "sensitive" movie where you have any appreciation for the bad guys -- it's a glorification of three hundred soldiers who died for their land and freedom. It just wouldn't work otherwise. It doesn't blindly adore the Spartans -- we see their darker side in their "weed out the weak" policy -- but it does appreciate them. They respect and care about each other, and Leonidas is as kind as he can be even to Ephialtes, the traitor.
  
  And it's done in a manner appropriate to its comic book origins -- grimy, bloody and epic, but with a stylized look that is almost like CGI. The battles are shockingly good, and full of fantasy-ish creations like the monstrous creatures or the silver-masked Immortals. Even a wall of corpses. But we also get some beautiful visuals as well -- roiling seas, sunlit battlefields, Spartan cities, and the drugged Oracle in her white veil.
  
  While the script gets a bit over-the-top at times, it's hard not to be moved by dialogue that can be darkly funny ("It's just an eye. The gods saw fit to grace me with a spare") or stirring ("He did not wish tribute, nor song, or monuments or poems of war and valor. His wish was simple: "Remember us." That was his hope, should any free soul come across that place, in all the countless centuries yet to be").
  
  Butler and Headey are simply great as Leonidas and Gorgo -- they're both strong, passionate and fearless, and they both do a great job in their separate storylines. But the movie is filled with good performances -- David Wenham as the narrator, Dominic West as a disgusting traitor, Santoro as the decadent, arrogant god-king, and many others.
  
  "300" is a unique, stirring, stunning movie that pushes the action-movie envelope, and gives a thrilling edge to a real-life story of overwhelming power. A brilliant movie.
  
  
• Frank Miller's take on the first great last stand finally arrives on the big screen
  By A2NJO6YE954DBH on 2007-03-10
  Before going to see "300" this afternoon I watched the 1962 film "The 300 Spartans." I have a strong affection for the marching music in the film and the shot of Leonidas leading the Spartan phalanx for the last time, plus an enduring sense of injustice at the Persians dispatching the last Spartans by wave after wave of cartoon arrows. I had read Frank Miller's "300" when it was first published in five issues so I knew what to expect. This film is not history: it is art. Granted, we are talking post-modern art, but that still counts as art in a world where computers are as important as cameras when making a movie.
  
  The Battle of Thermopylae was fought in 480 B.C. The Persian army of Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) is invading Greece with the largest army the world has ever seen. With the Spartan army prohibited from marching north because of a religious festival, King Leonidas (Gerald Butler in fine form) heads for the natural bottleneck on the main road between Locris and Thessaly with the 300 men of his bodyguard. After three days of battle the Spartans were betrayed by a man named Ephialtes who showed the Persians a mountain path that led behind the Greek lines. While the rest of the Greek soldiers retreated, the 300 Spartans and 700 Thespians were slaughtered to the last man. Simonides composed a famous epigram that was engraved as an epitaph on a commemorative stone placed on top of the burial mound of the Spartans at Thermopylae: "Go, stranger, and tell the Spartans, That we lie here in obedience to their laws."
  
  Miller was inspired by historical events but was not constrained by it in telling his story. In his version Ephialtes (Andrew Tiernan) is no longer a poor shepherd but a deformed figure who was born to parents who fled Sparta rather than leave their infant on a rock to die, adding elements of pathos and irony hitherto unseen with regards to the character. Nor is this movie the attempt to faithfully bring Miller's art to life that we saw with "Sin City," which is perfectly fine with me. Besides, director Zack Snyder's film reminded me more of lots of other films, from "Gladiator" to "Hero," more than it did "Sin City." I want to say that what we saw of this type of modern filmmaking in "Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow" has been refined, but that would be quite an ironic comment to make about such a gory and gritty film. Ultimately, the movie is rather impressionistic in nature, emphasizing graphic images over everything else, which brings us back around again to the idea that "300" is art and not history.
  
  I was quite pleased the overall "300" met my expectations. During the first part of the battle Snyder ("Dawn of the Dead") resorts to the rapid series of cuts that I have come to deplore in contemporary action films because I can never tell what is happening. I understand that a battle is a sea of chaos, but if I cannot tell what is going on I become distracted. I want to see what is happening in order for the scenes to become memorable to me. Fortunately the rest of the movie takes full advantage of slow motion technique we see in the trailers and television spots for the film. In fact, "300" makes better use of slow motion than any film I can remember, mainly because the point is not to prolong the suspense (e.g., the end of the fight in "Rocky II"), but to let you see what is happening (e.g., River's fight scenes in "Serenity"). Think of watching big hits in football in slow motion replay and you get a sense of how Snyder is able to strategically slow down the action to see not only the power but also the grace of the violence.
  
  Looks are everything in this film, so the Spartans fight bare-chested, the better for their muscles to ripple, while the Persians might be the most overdressed warriors in cinematic history (although I admit that I have to wonder where the Spartans were hiding their helmets on the long trip from Sparta to the Hot Gates). "300" is a film that glories in visual excess as the army of Xerxes becomes a computer generated million man march and the pass at Thermopylae exists between towering pillars of rock. This may or may not be the most computer generated figures on the screen at one time in the history of the world, but I have to believe "300" offers the biggest piles of corpses we have ever seen. As if quantity was not enough to overwhelm the Spartans, Leonidas and his men are confronted by a towering Xerxes and a host of monstrous men and animals. The net result may well be the best comic book movie to date, despite the fact the hero is a historical figure and not a superhero.
  
  This adaptation plays up a subplot regarding what is happening back at Sparta while Leonidas and his body guard face annihilation as Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) attempts to play politics with Theron (Dominic West), who complains about the legitimacy of the king's actions rather than deal with the reality of a Persian army coming to crush Greece. But it is hard to care about such machinations in the face of the historical record and the fact that the drama is happening at Thermopylae and not back in Sparta. There are notes sounded about saving Greece from the Persians and civilization from the evils of Asian mysticism, but the legacy of the Spartans has nothing to do with their role in the development of democracy. Almost two millennium before the Alamo there was this story of a group of warriors that sacrifice their lives in a battle so that their people could win the war. The story of the 300 Spartans at the Battle of Thermopylae is that of the first great last stand.
  
  
• Pop Cinema Hits a New Low
  By A3E9YE8BP7OU8I on 2007-03-28
  Zack Snyder's "300" begins with a young boy's assimilation into the Spartan army. He endures a series of grueling training exercises, one of which involves a fistfight with another adolescent. As the young boy connects with the other's cheek, Snyder masochistically accelerates the frame rate so that a spurt of computer-generated blood billows into the camera lens. Snyder is betting on the audience's immediate approval and enjoyment. Ra-ra-ra! Bring on the blood and badasses! At this point, you may begin to feel a sinking sensation - Is that all this movie has to offer? Quite possibly.
  
  "300" is based on Frank Miller's graphic novel of the same name, and so it features narration similar to a comic book's. While comics rely on narration to fill gaps created by the juxtaposition of still (sometimes disassociated) images, screenwriters Zack Snyder, Kurt Johnstad, and Michael Gordon use the narration to...well, narrate...as though it were for the attention deficient, telling us what's readily apparent. The narrator describes the young man, now older, facing an immense wolf with glistening teeth and demonic eyes, as we see the man face off against an immense wolf...with glistening teeth and demonic eyes.
  
  "300" is loosely inspired by a historical event from 480 B. C. when 300 Spartans attempted to prevent the vast Persian Army from encroaching on their lands. Viewers are offered a blunt introduction to the Spartan way of life. The young man from the film's opening has become the King of Sparta, Leonidas (played with stony-faced resolve by Gerard Butler). The Spartan culture is one of the utmost brutality and pride. When confronted with a message from the Persians: surrender or face destruction, King Leonidas is unmoved, disdainfully remarking that after all, some "boy-loving" neighbor region succeeded in resisting the Persians. Leonidas quickly dispatches the Persian messenger, making a declaration with near-operatic intensity: "This! Is! Sparta!"
  
  Ironically, there are few things more mundane than non-stop action, which is all "300" has to offer once Leonidas marches his forces against the Persian army. Leonidas's actions run contrary to the wishes of the Spartan war council - a group of wretched old men who draw inspiration (among other things) from a young, scantily clad female prophet. When the Spartan forces reach the Persians, they are met with a series of challenges, each more outlandish than the last. Ordinary troops are used at first, followed by ninja look-alikes called the Immortals, and then a hulkish brute who refuses to die (nary a sword through the arm nor a dagger in the eye is enough to stop this poor bum). While the Persian forces grow increasingly stronger, Snyder's approach to the combat remains steadfast. Battle sequences consist of lengthy shots that are accelerated and decelerated, as if to say "Look what I can do," and climax in computer-generated arterial sprays.
  
  From its formulaic storyline to its technical prowess (or lack thereof), "300" comes across as a product for mass consumption more than a passion project or artistic achievement. Larry Fong's cinematography is overblown and color-corrected to the point of nausea. An abundance of earthy browns and reds are the order of the day, while nights drown in steely grays and dark blues. "300" is tainted by computer-generated imagery. The landscapes are rendered with the sophistication and detail of a screensaver, while a rampaging rhinoceros moves with the flexibility of silly putty. Technical shortcomings might be easy enough to overlook were Snyder not trying so hard to blow our minds. He blows our stamina instead.
  
  The movie ends with the narrator imparting an important message about the power of a dedicated few. As Snyder desperately reaches for gravitas, this acts as a bitter reminder of the butchering of this inspiring event. Snyder has chosen to use the story to appeal to the lowest common denominator. There's no crime in making or enjoying a good action film, but gratuitous and excessive action is both sloppy and boring.
  
  What happened to the Francis Ford Coppolas, the Stanley Kubricks, and the David Leans - filmmakers who exhibited a great deal of ambition, passion, and intellect in their epic canvases? "300" so completely strives to please the baser instincts of the twenty-something male crowd, that if you bring your brain into the theater (and who can blame you), you'll be scratching your head in bewilderment.
  
  
• HD DVD combo is just FINE
  By A2AEPEF68RBJO on 2007-07-03
  Don't listen to the negative responses from the Bluray fanboys, the HD DVD combo disks are a great deal. For those having both HD DVD and standard DVD players, you can watch the movie in all your players! You fanboys need to get a life!
  
  To you Bluray fanboys: Stop spreading your garbage about a dying or dead format.. HD DVD is growing in strength daily... better player prices, same and even in many case SUPERIOR picture and sound quality. I own both formats, so I have done the comparisons.
  
  This video will rock the house!
  
  
• This is Sparta!
  By A1D2C0WDCSHUWZ on 2007-05-24
  Frank Miller adaptations are on a roll. First we got "Sin City," and now we have the story of three hundred Spartans who repelled a massive invasion.
  
  And the adaptation of "300" is a stunning one -- literally stunning, since it bombards the viewer with larger-than-life characters, smashing visuals and tight direction. It goes a bit too fast for its own good, but it's a truly epic film that takes the historical war movie to another level -- all the more so because it actually happened.
  
  As the introduction tells us, the Spartans were the ultimate warrior people. Babies were inspected for weakness or faults, and killed if they had any; as they were growing up, they were taught and toughened by a savage regimen. Their only true hope was to "die beautifully" for their land.
  
  A Persian messenger arrives, telling King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) that the god-king Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) wants the Spartans to bow to him. Leonidas' response: shove the Persians into a pit. But before he can go to war, he must consult the corrupt priesthood of Ephors and their beautiful Oracle. She predicts that Sparta will fall and the gods forbid war at the approach of the Carneaian festival -- courtesy of a hefty bribe from a Spartan traitor.
  
  So Leonidas takes out three hundred of his best men, along with their nervy Arcadian allies, and begin trouncing the Persians. But they are being sabotaged, both by a hunchbacked outcast and by a treacherous councilor, whom Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) is battling. And so at Thermopylae, Leonidas prepares for a final battle against the monstrous Persian Army -- knowing that their story of freedom will live on.
  
  This is not a "sensitive" movie where you have any appreciation for the bad guys -- it's a glorification of three hundred soldiers who died for their land and freedom. It just wouldn't work otherwise. It doesn't blindly adore the Spartans -- we see their darker side in their "weed out the weak" policy -- but it does appreciate them. They respect and care about each other, and Leonidas is as kind as he can be even to Ephialtes, the traitor.
  
  And it's done in a manner appropriate to its comic book origins -- grimy, bloody and epic, but with a stylized look that is almost like CGI. The battles are shockingly good, and full of fantasy-ish creations like the monstrous creatures or the silver-masked Immortals. Even a wall of corpses. But we also get some beautiful visuals as well -- roiling seas, sunlit battlefields, Spartan cities, and the drugged Oracle in her white veil.
  
  While the script gets a bit over-the-top at times, it's hard not to be moved by dialogue that can be darkly funny ("It's just an eye. The gods saw fit to grace me with a spare") or stirring ("He did not wish tribute, nor song, or monuments or poems of war and valor. His wish was simple: "Remember us." That was his hope, should any free soul come across that place, in all the countless centuries yet to be").
  
  Butler and Headey are simply great as Leonidas and Gorgo -- they're both strong, passionate and fearless, and they both do a great job in their separate storylines. But the movie is filled with good performances -- David Wenham as the narrator, Dominic West as a disgusting traitor, Santoro as the decadent, arrogant god-king, and many others.
  
  "300" is a unique, stirring, stunning movie that pushes the action-movie envelope, and gives a thrilling edge to a real-life story of overwhelming power. A brilliant movie.
  
  
• This isn't history, this is madness!
  By A1CHOKV10NEI8X on 2007-08-04
  But in a good way!
  
  This is "300", a movie adaptation of a comic book version of a historical event. This movie cannot fairly be critiqued from a single perspective, so I'll look at it from several.
  
  As history: Not as bad as the most vocal critics would have you think, but consider it an inspiration to read about the actual events rather than a history of the events (unlike the old "I, Claudius" series, which had only a couple of historical errors). "300" mentions most of the key events around the battle of Thermopylae. Then the history goes downhill fast. The costumes, the weapons, the armor, the role and nature of the Ephors, the terrain of Greece, the ships, and numerous other elements detract from the historical accuracy of the movie. But this doesn't keep it from being a good movie, just don't watch it before that big history test.
  
  Visually: Overwhelming! Miller's imagery presents very well on the big screen through Zack Snyder's direction. It's from a comic book, so everything is larger than life. The use of color was brilliant, and shapes the mood of the viewer with remarkable grace. This movie overwhelms with vignettes of image, each more powerful than the last. I was particularly impressed by the imagery of the Spartan phalanx, capturing the power, beauty, and lethality of a coordinated team that has been trained and forged into a whole greater than the sum of its parts. On the other hand, I think Zack Synder is trying to do for American men what the fashion industry has done for American women (when I'm done typing, I need to do about 10,000 ab crunches, sit-ups, and flutterkicks).
  
  As a story (apart from history): Brilliant! It's a story of a man forced to decide between his desires, the duties of his office, the laws of his land, and the future of his country (and of the world; had Leonidas and his comrades not fought at the hot gates, Persia would have shaped the world very differently than the inspiration of Classical Greece did). Not an easy decision, and the factors shaping the decision are developed beautifully, and how the story of Leonidas and the 300 heros of Thermopylae shaped later events is mentioned at the end of the movie. This story is well told. It is also the story of Queen Gorgo, and one of the few cultures of the time that treated women with the respect they deserve. Sparta was the only Greek culture of that time where woman could be heard openly in political discussion, and had greater equality than in any other Greek city (and MUCH better treatment than in Persia). Ironic that in every other way, Sparta was the least liberal city of Greece. The Queen was a powerful woman of integrity, and the treatment of her piece of 300 is respectful, well told, and shows the whole woman. Congratulations to Lena Headey for a job well done!
  
  As having current, real-world impact: I am amused. The President of Iran's response to this movie is very telling. Iran is what was Persia, and the majority of Iran are ethnic Persians. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad voiced complaints about this movie, that it portrayed Persians in a negative light, that it was propaganda a psychological warfare, and demanded that the U.S. government do something. (Like anyone in Hollywood would do any thing for the Executive Branch these days.) It's from a comic book! This is as silly as China's complaints about Disney's "Mulan"! Oh, by the way, the U.S. government doesn't control the movie industry, but Ahmadinejad clearly thinks it does. But maybe Ahmadinejad was offended by a movie that had woman having a voice in a nation's policy. Maybe he was offended by exhortations to stand up against tyrants, for freedom, the future, and the hope that (Greek) democracy brought to the world. Maybe he was upset by the comicbook presentation of Xerxes. Still, regardless of the reason, his demands to suppress the arts speak volumes about his vision for Iran and the world.
  Nah, he was just upset that someone reminded the world that guys in pajamas (Persian trousers) were beaten by guys in skirts.
  
  As a source for leadership vignettes: pretty darned good. The single best one is in the dialog between Leonidas and Xerxes, as they discuss the roles of leaders and followers, but Leonidas' talk with hunchbacked shepard who wished to fight alongside the Greeks, and the final monolog have much to offer also.
  
  There have been frequent criticisms of the way "300" presents the human figure, alleging that the film is soft-core homoerotic porn. Critics shouldn't be so narrow. If "300" is any kind of soft-core porn, it is pretty even-handed and diverse in its nature, especially in Xerxes' tents. The movie is not for kids, and not for adults offended by human bodies or sexuality.
  
  In all, I enjoyed "300" and was moved by the final scene, where the entire story is placed in context by the narrator. As a bit of a historian, I couldn't give it the fifth star, but that wasn't easy as I believe it captures the spirit of the Greek side of the Battle of Thermopylae well, despite uncounted historical inaccuracies and fabrications. It's not for everyone, but it is very good for what it is.
  
  
• Meaningless
  By A1XTWXIMUCDGQE on 2007-03-10
  I guess "meaningless" wouldn't exactly be accurate; there's meaning in the story. It's just that what meaning there is in 300 has so little value.
  
  My friends and I who went to see this really ended up laughing through most of this film. Sure, it was pretty. But that was about all there was to it. Everything in the story was just so trite, and there's not a character in the film that's not a stereotype. Plus, there's no plot. The Persians are coming, and the whole movie is just the Spartans battling wave upon wave of the different kinds of warriors that can be thrown at them. The repetitive battle scenes are only broken up by a couple of gratuitous sex scenes and speech after speech after speech (six or seven) that all say the same thing--the Spartans are the reasonable people in the world, fighting for freedom and justice. They even got a Mel Gibson look- and sound-alike, and they had him give a couple of Braveheart speeches (though I liked that movie, which made a little bit of sense).
  
  Of course, there's not a whole lot about the Spartan society in the movie that makes it seem so free or reasonable. Infants with the slightest imperfection are thrown to their deaths. Boys are ripped from their mothers and drafted into a violent warrior culture where, it is made clear, concepts of love and mercy are anathema. If these boys don't survive their childhood, they don't deserve to live anyway. The "philosophers" and "boy lovers" of Athens are mocked, and it's made clear that Spartan society is socially and economically unjust. They even kill the defenseless enemy messengers in one of the opening scenes of the film. Also, King Leonidas's wife tells him the standard Spartan line, "Either come back with your shield or on top of it." Many of these things, I'm sure, are pretty accurate concerning Spartan society. But this isn't a free or reasonable society. It's ridiculous that the movie pretends so.
  
  Honestly, there's not a value in the movie that I could agree with. It's really out to appeal to peoples' worst instincts. The film is at its heart about violence for violence's sake, and the concepts of "liberty" and "justice" and "duty" are only cheapened by being in it.
  
  A common definition of pornography: "creative activity (writing or pictures or films etc.) of no literary or artistic value other than to stimulate desire." Frankly, 300 comes pretty close to this.
  
  
• HD-DVD fanboys
  By A1LZV1MF3LRNH2 on 2007-07-02
  I love how HD-DVD fanboys try to ruin a review section of a blu-ray movie with garbage. This movie will look good regardless of what format its on. It will look the same on both HD-DVD and Blu-ray. I'v seen 300 at the theater and couldn't wait until it hit a hidef format because I know it will look good.
  
  
• Great production !
  By A1Z5K9QTL5C3ZF on 2007-07-02
  I saw this movie in the theater and it was great ! You will not be disappointed if you like action movie.
  
  
• Cartoonish Nonsense
  By A1EDJ8271K2PW0 on 2007-12-27
  Although I am unable to properly judge, this film might be passable as homoerotic pornography properly suited to sticky floored theaters. As cinema, it is a sad symptom of a juvenile society that embraces cartoons as art and spectacle as narrative. The Spartans, whose existence depended on helot slavery and the crushing of individualism, are portrayed as freedom's founders and there is no word to describe how the Persians are portrayed. While dehumanization of the enemy is common in war and war propaganda, never has it been so literal; the Persians appear to be another species. The Athenians, who may have some rightful claim to giving birth to democracy, are insulted as `boy-lovers,' despite not appearing to spend nearly the amount of time in the gym as the Spartans.
  Fundamentally, the battle of Thermopile is an inherently dramatic event that should lend itself well to dramatization. Nevertheless, the filmmakers chose to pornographize rather than dramatize and we are left with a series of meaningless battle scenes tied together by nothing other than their own increasing absurdity. More upsetting than the sheer lack of quality in this movie is the reception it has received and what that indicates for our nation. It has been said that `War is the health of the state;" it is distressing when it becomes the health of art and culture. A civilization can survive the production of many bad movies, yet it is certainly vulnerable to a citizenry that has replaced thought with stimulation.
  
  
  
• Features galore on HD DVD...Not on Blurry Ray!
  By AAD1W9GBYWY1W on 2007-07-03
  HD DVD has so many awesome features over Blurry Ray. I own both formats and will only buy the best featured title which is only on HD DVD.
  
  
• Don't listen to the Ignorant blu-ray reviewers.
  By A13CHNKYZAULKA on 2007-07-24
  I can't wait for this to be released on HD-DVD. I really feel sorry for the blu-ray only crowd. Considering you can purchase an hd-dvd player for 1/2 the cost of a blu-ray player, I don't see why they don't purchase both.
  
  With 300 on hd-dvd, you get better audio (a lot of blu-ray players can't decode Dolby TrueHD) and interactivity features the none of the blu-ray players can do. Also since the picture will be the same (I've read they used the same video encode for both), there really isn't any reason to buy this on blu-ray. If you do, your just telling the studios and blu-ray manufacturers that it's o.k. to sell you incomplete hardware and software.
  
  Combo discs mean you can play the disc in any player in your house. Unless you want to either replace all your dvd players with a PS3 ($500-$600 per unit) or purchase every movie twice (one blu-ray, one dvd), combo discs are the way to go.
  
  As for quality, every movie released on both formats have been virtually identical in reviews. Mostly the difference is noted when the blu-ray gets stuck with Dolby Digital because some of the players can't support the advanced audio. Studios release to the lowest common denominator, which is pretty low in blu-ray's case.
  
  I take anything Sony(betamax) or PS3 users say with a grain of salt. There are many reasons why HD-DVD is a smarter purchase.
  
  1. Players are significantly cheaper. Blu-ray players are hundres more expensive.
  2. All hd-dvd players support available features. All current blu-ray players have drawbacks of some kind. Examples: can't play cd's. can't decode advanced audio codecs, can't play picture in picture, can't access internet, the list goes on. Blu-ray players have been out for over a year and still haven't caught up with hd-dvd's features.
  3. Quality - I have the 1st gen HD-A1 (hd-dvd) unit and a 2nd gen BD-P1200 (blu-ray) and I've had vastly fewer problems with HD-DVD. Other than booting slower than my blu-ray player, the menu's are faster, remote is faster, I can fast forward and rewind without locking up the player, ect.
  
  Don't settle for BLU-RAY, demand the complete HD-DVD experience.
  
  
• Felt like 300 Minutes
  By A2R8F23VCZHB7M on 2007-09-09
  First of all, I tried to keep an open mind about this movie, despite the fact I don't care for these old fashion sort of battles, the spears, all the blood. Maybe that's it, the movies show too much blood, getting stabbed, etc. I was a little surprised this wasn't too bad compared to something like Braveheart (in terms of blood and how gory it is; but then again, it's been awhile since I saw Braveheart, so maybe I'm wrong).
  But, where is the story? Where is the character development? I understand, fight to no longer be slaves, but still, there must be more. And who are these people? A queen, a king, some god, and a lot of people who fight. There was so little character development. I finally knew who one person was just because he's the one with some cloth wrapped around his eye.
  And the blood/CGI, ugh. Not good. Too fake and pointless. Maybe that's why it seemed easier to sit through this than Braveheart.
  And the battles? I've seen commercials last longer than that. Now I am no big action sort of guy in films, but it's nice at times, and this was just flat out horrible.
  The ending was short too. I like why he did what he did (won't say much, don't want to spoil it), but that was about it.
  And this nude sex bit. It really isn't that bad. Personally, I don't quite understand why this country is so touchy about sex and nudity, as if it's bad to make love to your spouse, but it's OKAY to stab someone through their heart, and decapitate them. "I know honey, you prefer us to beat each other up and have our own blood bath, and I know it's worse to ask this, but can we have sex? I know it's worse! It's horrible, so shameful! but please?" 'rolls eyes' But that's beside the point.
  The point here, the movie was done poorly.
  The story wasn't strong enough, you didn't know the people too well (guess that's no longer important in films), the blood/CGI was weak, battle scenes ended so quickly. Reminded me of the movie Doom. Through all those battles, and no blood stains on the warriors, yeah that makes sense. I go to work, fairly clean place, and yet I come home from the factory with dust, yet all these people fight and no blood.
  Oh well, that's not important, right? Who cares. just sit down and watch some movie that shows breasts, sex, violence and blood.
  I was expecting more than what I got here. Grab the 'History Channel' special on the 300. I'm sure it's better than this.
  
  
  
  
• The movie should be placed in outer space or some fantasy land
  By A2ELNJI3RSGP6D on 2007-12-05
  This is a monstrous, racist, propagandistic, jingoistic, semi pornographic (sexual as well as violent), war mongering cartoon of a movie equivalent to pro wrestling permeated with sadism and the grotesque. It is pure trash for the mind and the soul as well as an insult to everyone that lived during that historic battle. Those were real human beings who deserve to be represented with some degree of fidelity. 300 is an advanced "Triumph of the Will" with special effects to dazzle the audience into a frenzy of hatred. I think that if any ethnic group in the United States were misrepresented as the Persians are in this movie it would be grounds for defamation if not labeled a hate crime. History and truth do matter.
  
  
  
  
• Some minor flaws, but a truly engrossing, riveting movie! Great action movie!
  By A1ER5AYS3FQ9O3 on 2007-05-11
  I think this one will only get popular over time, as word of mouth and eventual DVD and cable distribution give viewers a chance to appreciate the strengths of this movie and the tale of Leonidas, who led 300 Spartans into battle. Unlike similar films, including that botched film about Troy with Brad Pitt, this one will resonate with viewers.
  
  One warning - it has extremely graphic and bloody scenes, so if you take family members, consider their ability to handle this. Beheadings, dismemberments, deformities and cruelty - it is all here, but it is counterbalanced by other elements.
  
  Here's my summary of this movie's strong points (in no special order):
  
  1. From beginning to end, there is plenty of action, much of it very graphic violence. But it isn't action without CONTEXT. It isn't just done for shock value. There is some real historical information but it is merged with the action and doesn't weigh down the film. In short, there aren't long, boring scenes. This one moves quickly!
  
  2. There is an exploration of the Spartan philosophy, including how young boys are trained for battle. It is graphic but believable.
  
  3. The characterizations are believable, particularly Leonida. There is an emphasis on action and emotion is used sparingly (except in battle), but what comes through is believable and all the stronger for it. You can feel the passion between Leonidas and his wife, even as he maintains his strict emotional control with his men.
  I couldn't take my eyes off Gerald Butler as Leonidas, who combined steadfast determination, the desire to change from the old ways to the new and absolute believability as the leader of the Spartans.
  
  4, The graphics and the dark, heavy atmosphere. The director uses the red of the Spartan uniforms to make certan figures stand out and there is a lot of black and white in some scenes. It is very effective.
  
  5. A certain surrealism or mythic quality that transcends the script or any historical or other flaws that may be in the film (my husband, the historian, couldn't help pointing those out).
  
  I don't know how Miller's fans (this movie is based on a book by Frank Miller) will feel about this film and I'm not familiar with the graphic novel. But, for sheer entertainment value with a bit of history thrown in, this one can't be beat. I haven't heard a single negative comment from anyone who has seen it.
  
  
• This is Sparta!
  By A1D2C0WDCSHUWZ on 2007-06-29
  Frank Miller adaptations are on a roll. First we got "Sin City," and now we have the story of three hundred Spartans who repelled a massive invasion.
  
  And the adaptation of "300" is a stunning one -- literally stunning, since it bombards the viewer with larger-than-life characters, smashing visuals and tight direction. It goes a bit too fast for its own good, but it's a truly epic film that takes the historical war movie to another level -- all the more so because it actually happened.
  
  As the introduction tells us, the Spartans were the ultimate warrior people. Babies were inspected for weakness or faults, and killed if they had any; as they were growing up, they were taught and toughened by a savage regimen. Their only true hope was to "die beautifully" for their land.
  
  A Persian messenger arrives, telling King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) that the god-king Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) wants the Spartans to bow to him. Leonidas' response: shove the Persians into a pit. But before he can go to war, he must consult the corrupt priesthood of Ephors and their beautiful Oracle. She predicts that Sparta will fall and the gods forbid war at the approach of the Carneaian festival -- courtesy of a hefty bribe from a Spartan traitor.
  
  So Leonidas takes out three hundred of his best men, along with their nervy Arcadian allies, and begin trouncing the Persians. But they are being sabotaged, both by a hunchbacked outcast and by a treacherous councilor, whom Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) is battling. And so at Thermopylae, Leonidas prepares for a final battle against the monstrous Persian Army -- knowing that their story of freedom will live on.
  
  This is not a "sensitive" movie where you have any appreciation for the bad guys -- it's a glorification of three hundred soldiers who died for their land and freedom. It just wouldn't work otherwise. It doesn't blindly adore the Spartans -- we see their darker side in their "weed out the weak" policy -- but it does appreciate them. They respect and care about each other, and Leonidas is as kind as he can be even to Ephialtes, the traitor.
  
  And it's done in a manner appropriate to its comic book origins -- grimy, bloody and epic, but with a stylized look that is almost like CGI. The battles are shockingly good, and full of fantasy-ish creations like the monstrous creatures or the silver-masked Immortals. Even a wall of corpses. But we also get some beautiful visuals as well -- roiling seas, sunlit battlefields, Spartan cities, and the drugged Oracle in her white veil.
  
  While the script gets a bit over-the-top at times, it's hard not to be moved by dialogue that can be darkly funny ("It's just an eye. The gods saw fit to grace me with a spare") or stirring ("He did not wish tribute, nor song, or monuments or poems of war and valor. His wish was simple: "Remember us." That was his hope, should any free soul come across that place, in all the countless centuries yet to be").
  
  Butler and Headey are simply great as Leonidas and Gorgo -- they're both strong, passionate and fearless, and they both do a great job in their separate storylines. But the movie is filled with good performances -- David Wenham as the narrator, Dominic West as a disgusting traitor, Santoro as the decadent, arrogant god-king, and many others.
  
  "300" is a unique, stirring, stunning movie that pushes the action-movie envelope, and gives a thrilling edge to a real-life story of overwhelming edge. A brilliant movie.
  
  
• "300" is excellent!
  By A3LZBOBV9H1HDV on 2007-03-11
  "300" is excellent! The cast led by Gerard Butler, is great. The directing by Zack Snyder (who also directed "Dawn Of The Dead" (2004) & the upcoming "Watchmen" (2008) is excellent. The screenplay (based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller (who is also known for his other creations, such as Daredevil, Elektra, Batman, and Robocop), who also wrote the graphic novel "Sin City" (2005) and co-directed the movie with Robert Rodriguez and Lynn Varley) by Snyder, Kurt Johnstad, & Michael Gordon is excellent. The music by Tyler Bates (who also did the music to "Dawn Of The Dead" & the upcoming "Watchmen") is excellent. The cinematography by Larry Fong is excellent. The film editing by William Hoy (who also did the film editing to "Fantastic Four" (2005) & the upcoming "Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer" (2007) is excellent. The casting by Kristy Carlson, Carrie Hilton, Andrea Kenyon, & Tamara Notcutt is great. The production design by James D. Bissell (who also did the Oscar-nominated production design to "Good Night And Good Luck." (2005) is excellent. The art direction by Isabelle Guay, Nicolas Lepage, & Jean-Pierre Paquet (all three also did the art direction to "The Fountain" (2006) is excellent. The set decoration by Paul Hotte (who also did the set decoration to "The Fountain") is excellent. The costume design by Michael Wilkinson (who also did the costume design to "Babel" (2006) is excellent. This is an excellent movie that is faithful to the graphic novel, just like Frank Miller's "Sin City" adaptation was.
  
  
• BluRay
  By A2KYS0ILC2K0LC on 2007-07-01
  Blu ray sucks! HD-DVD Rules! blah blah blah! shut up fanboys, this movie rocks, and will be great in HD, regardless of what format. special features are not why you are buying it, the movie itself is. go cry somewhere else, the movie will sell with or without your nagging.
  
  

• Troy - The Director's Cut [Blu-ray]
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