Movie Review: 300

Go see this film. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200... unless it will assist in paying for said movie and the outrageously priced snacks that go hand-in-hand with a theatrical experience. The reasons to see it are many... here are a few:

1. Gerard Butler. A fine actor (in both talent and, let's face it... looks) Does a superb job playing the lead as King Leonidas in this film. His portrayal is strong and you get over the fact that he is a Scotsman leading a group of Greeks very quickly. He does not attempt to hide his brogue, and we are better off for it. His character is fierce and courageous and his performance is both fierce and courageous as well.

2. Graphically pleasing. This film is based on the graphic novel (please don't call it a comic book, those graphic novel lovers will turn on you!) of the same name. I scanned through the novel at a local bookstore and the film stays true to its origins. The film is shot in an almost "sepia" color that brings incredible texture to the project. I worried that it would be too grainy or that it would wash everything out and make it boring to watch... nothing could be further from the truth. It added an aged feel to it that was beautiful in its simplicity.

3. Gerard Butler. Oh wait. I think I have mentioned him already. Wow. What a powerful performance. Did I mention that? If I haven't... let me mention it now. Amay---zing.

4. Action! Action! Action! This film never stops. Truly. There are usually moments in a film where you could do without a scene or three. That really isn't the case here. The story starts strong, ends strong, and there is really no time or desire for a potty break in the middle. The script is strong, the acting is strong on ALL accounts (not just Butler's) and the fighting sequences are gruesome and glorious. Oops... I illiterated, and I hate doing that! If you do not have the stomach for blood and guts, you will want to bypass this film, because there are plenty of severed limbs strewn about once the fighting begins. If you don't enjoy hideous-looking creatures, you may have to turn your head a few times, but that will soon pass and the blood and guts fighting will take over.

Even the fighting is filmed with a strong sense of beauty. They have taken battle moves and turned them into an exotic dance. Knowing that these actors worked before a green/blue screen for most of the film (if not all) exhibits another strength from this talented cast. They embrace the surroundings they could not see while filming and you believe without doubt that you are standing amongst the Spartans.

Go. Enjoy. It is worth the full price of the ticket... it is even worth the additional price of an IMAX experience.