300

There have been a few films in recent years where it's clear the director had too much control over the story and that the producer wasn't strong enough to tell him "Oi! Just film what's in the script! Alright?" The term "style over substance" was coined to cover such films, and we can all think of one or two examples. Films where you come out and can't remember what the plot was, only what the lead actor was wearing. At the risk of being expelled from the movie club for swearing, let us not forget one of the greatest crimes against humanity: Batman & Robin.

Oh, I hate myself, I hate myself for mentioning that. Bad taste in my mouth now. Ptooey!

I was worried about watching 300. This film has had so many different reviews. Some people loved it, some people hated it. Symon's quote was "Bad history to a pulsing rock soundtrack." Jackie's was "men are stupid, flaunt a couple of naked females snogging in front of them and they'll give you what you wish" which, let's face it, is as true today as it was back then.

I didn't think I'd enjoy this, but a bunch of friends sat me down and forced me to watch it. I rather enjoyed it. It's a sort of bloke's movie, in that you need men around you to say things like:

"Oh, ya bugger!"
"Ouch! Oh, I felt that one!"
"Now be honest, would you be in that first row of the assault?" All: "Hell no!"
"Holy crap! Did you see what he just did to that guy?"
"He's taking it tight!"*

and of course:
"Oh man! His whole arm just came off!"

There were a few scenes I didn't like because the CGI was really obvious in them and it kind of spoilt the whole premise of having a film shot entirely on green screen. I think we'll eventually look back in nostalgia, remembering the films of the end of the 20th century, and remember with fond memories a time when they used to make films with real sets.

Score:

C- if you start looking at the nitty gritty of it, like plot, dialogue or historical accuracy.
B+ for a bloke's film to watch with mates.

OQ: I hope you live forever.

This film is eminently quotable, check out IMDB for more.

* I have no idea what this phrase means.