Review of the movie 300

This movie is based on a graphic novel (uptown comic book) of the same name. The story, however, is based on real events that occurred about 480 B. C. The battle of Thermopylae, though the Spartans were defeated, ultimately inspired the Greek city states to unite and stop the Persian Empire from conquering Europe. The major facts of the real event are preserved in this movie though some characters and plot are added to personalize the already abundant drama.

The look of this movie preserves the feel of a graphic novel without actually being fully animated. The special effects involved are not ground-breaking but well chosen. Most of the acting was done in front of blue screens and the sets were computer generated. If this movie had been fully animated it would have had far less emotional impact. If it had been portrayed realistically on film it would have been as corny as the gladiator films of the fifties now seem.

None of the actors in this movie are stars yet the quality of the acting is perfect for the concept of a graphic novel brought to the screen. Everyone is over the top without appearing silly. The characters are larger than life but not so much that you have to consider this a fantasy rather than a story based on a real historical event.

The purpose of art is to cause an emotional reaction. This movie does that in a big way. The target audience for this movie is probably teenagers, even though it is R rated, yet people of all ages are sure to be moved by the bravery and integrity of King Leonidas and the 300. It’s a good idea to show teens, and everyone else, that sometimes people have to do what is right because it is right in the face of impossible odds as well as opposition and intrigue from your friends. Super heroes are fantasy and so movies about them are entertaining but ultimately forgettable. Movies about real heroes who give what Abe Lincoln called the last full measure of devotion change young lives, form character, and inspire respect and admiration for those who serve and protect their countries.