My Reactions to "300" in March 2007

I saw "300" for the third time at an IMAX theater. Each time I see it I discover new things. On IMAX the sound is 3 times as clear. The picture is amazing. On a large multiplex screen it is good, but just WOW! for IMAX.
Now I'm a woman, and an ancient pelican to boot. And I loved this film! I have to admit, I am a fan of violent westerns (The Wild Bunch), Hong Kong John Woo films (The Killers, Hardboiled), so knew this wouldn't bother me. And I loved Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, another artistic masterpiece. Fighting, blood and death in the hands of a great cast and director makes for a great time at the movies. "300" is so stylized, and the color so different, that all I can say is it is a masterpiece. Like a great battle painting, you want to visit it often.
"300" has a rousing story to tell, based on a true event. It is filtered through Frank Millers graphic novel, and Director Zack Snyders artistic retelling. Since the story is immediately taken to the realm of storytelling by having Dilios (David Wenham) tell of the "brave 300" we understand (or ought to) that it is from the viewpoint of a Spartan warrior who is rallying the troops for the next great battle against the invaders of Greece - the Persians.
Outstanding in the role of King Leonidas, Gerard Butler, owns the screen whenever he appears. At once fierce in battle, loving of Queen Gordo (Lena Headey) and his son, laconic, all with style. When he stands on the battlefield eating an apple, as the warriors finish checking the last of the Persian dead and dying, it is an iconic moment. Told that there is an emmisary coming to meet with him, his men are fearful it is a trick to kill him. But he says if they do, all Greece will rise up and "they aren't that stupid." And after all, he say's "there's no reason we can't be civil." Perfect.
Headey's Queen is fierce and strong, and has her revenge on the villian of the piece, Theron (Dominic West). It brings applause and/or cheers depending on which audience you see the film with.
The battle scenes are amazing. The one long tracking scene of Leonidas in battle killing about a dozen men as they charge down the field, is heart poundingly great. Slow-mo as he engages, fast speed as he kills and twirls to meet the next - it a ballet of death. Thank you Zack and Gerard!
Just leave your cares and have a great time at the movies. From 1940 on this is the kind of film that makes fans of youth for life.
10/10