Director: Zack Snyder Based on:300 (1998), a graphic novel by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley Genre: Action, Historical Fantasy, War
Plot Summary
300 dramatises King Leonidas’ (Gerard Butler) defiance of Persian King Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) during the Battle of Thermopylae (480 BCE). Leading 300 Spartan warriors, Leonidas stalls the Persian advance using superior tactics and discipline. The film intercuts brutal combat with political intrigue in Sparta, where Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) battles corrupt politicians. Betrayed by Ephialtes (Andrew Tiernan), the Spartans are overwhelmed but inspire Greece to unite against Persia. Narrator Dilios (David Wenham) immortalises their sacrifice, rallying Greeks to ultimate victory.
Origin & Adaptation
Aspect
Details
Source Material
Frank Miller’s graphic novel 300 (1998), inspired by the 1962 film The 300 Spartans.
Creative Liberties
Mythic tone, exaggerated visuals, supernatural Persian forces.
89% Rotten Tomatoes; praised for visuals and action.
Critical Response
61% Rotten Tomatoes; mixed reviews over historical revisionism.
IMDb Rating
7.6/10.
Legacy & Cultural Impact
Impact
Details
Memes & Parodies
“This is Sparta!” became a viral catchphrase; spoofed in Meet the Spartans.
Sequels
300: Rise of an Empire (2014) focused on naval battles but lacked acclaim.
Influence
Inspired stylised action in John Wick; revived interest in Spartan lore.
Notable Quotes
Quote
Context
“This is Sparta!”
Leonidas kicks a Persian messenger into a pit.
“Tonight, we dine in Hell!”
Leonidas’ pre-battle rallying cry.
“Then we shall fight in the shade.”
Spartan retort to Persian archers blotting out the sun.
Final Verdict
Category
Rating (★)
Summary
Entertainment Value
★★★★★
Visually groundbreaking, relentlessly intense, and quotably iconic.
Historical Accuracy
★★☆☆☆
Prioritises myth over facts; Spartans as near-invincible superheroes.
Battle Choreography
★★★★★
Brutally poetic combat that redefined action cinematography.
Overall Score: 8/10 300 is less a historical epic than a thunderous opera of blood and bravado. While historians may cringe, fans of stylised action will revel in its operatic violence and unforgettable visuals. Approach it as a graphic novel brought to life, not a textbook, and you’ll leave exhilarated.
“Immortals? We’ll put their name to the test.” – King Leonidas, 300
