Rating of
0.5/4
A Pslam to Senseless Mayhem
aknudse2 - wrote on 09/20/08
Zach Snyder's 300 recites a psalm to senseless mayhem that embraces the worst aspects of the comic book genre. The characters consist of flimsy caricatures of good and evil, lacking even the pretense of reflection or genuine depth. The dialog is horrifically stilted and teeming with banal breast beating. The reviewer could summarize the uninspiring linear plot; but honestly, to avoid historical confusion, the dear reader is advised to consult Wikipedia's entry for the Battle of Thermopylae (and to skip the movie).
Granted, the graphics in this movie may impress. Perhaps the pornographic carnage enables modern Americans to enjoy vicariously some of the most brutal episodes from our species' beastly past. Like an aspirant Larry Flynt, Zack Snyder seeks to profit from the arousal of our primal urges.
George W. Bush aficionados may also find redeeming qualities in this film. It is not a stretch to see this movie as an allegory supporting the Bush Administration's foreign policy. A grave and gathering threat from Persia (Iran/Iraq) looms on the horizon. The ephors (foreign policy wisemen) urge caution and the senate (Congress) is hesitant. Thus, a courageous and bold executive, Leonidas (i.e. Bush) must dispense with proper procedure and the niceties of law to conduct his war for "freedom" (nevermind that Sparta was a slave society). Not content to merely honor Bush, the film stokes the fires, portraying the leader of Persia (Iran) as grotesquely effeminate (bet the mullah's loved that one).
Recent Comments
Nick - wrote on 09/20/08 at 10:19 PM CT
300 Review comment
I just wanted to say I really enjoyed your review, even though I am a fan of the movie. I knew going into the movie that it wasn't going to accurately depict the historic battle. I enjoyed the movie mainly for its cinematography, which I thought was really good.
