Review: 300

I saw 300 on opening night (3.09.07) at the IMAX theatre in the Universal City Walk - Hollywood. I was able to score some tickets early as this place was sold out for all showings! I showed up about 45 minutes early to find out that there was already a line of about 70 people waiting to enter the theatre. Great. Luckily, I hurtled my way through the crowd to land perfect seats for me and my wife.

Now, the reviews I had read for this movie had not been kind. I have been excited to see this flick since I first saw a trailer for it in late '06. I didn't want to let what I had read dampen my spirits, but I did go in with lower expectations. When the movie ended, all I could say was "Wow!"

A big complaint I read about was the "green screen effect." The feeling of just watching a video game. Well, I didn't have that feeling. I felt the background was done very well. Let's not forget, the entire point is to bring the graphic novel to life. Much like Sin City, the movie is given the feel of the book. I don't think it could have been done better on a live set. Not for this type of project.

Some of the narration was annoying, and a few parts a little over acted, but the entire movie was entertaining! A lot of muscle and bravado, but most of the attitudes did mimic the actual behavior of the Sparta population. Although, at one point King Leonidas did make a comment about how the men in Athens were "boy lovers." As far as I know (read: history channel documentary) the Spartans encouraged homosexuality in it's ranks. The idea being that the soldiers will be more emotionally invested in their brothers in arms and more willing to die for them.

There is plenty of blood, guts & gore. I can't think of a single hand to hand combat scenario where blood, guts & gore were not present. I don't understand the complaint here? What were these critics expecting? If you don't want to see the results (exaggerated, sure) of battle, don't go see this flick.

What? No sex? Hold on there little fella. There is a sex scene thrown in to satisfy the little pervert living in all of us. Leonidas' wife, Queen Gorgo, was played by Lena Headey. Put it this way, my wife was commenting on how hot she looked!

Verdict? Go see the damn movie!