I watched 300 yesterday.  I'll be honest, I was a bit skeptical.  I don't like bloody, gory movies.  I'm not a fan of movies involving war.  Okay, I'm just a big fan of things that are funny (and usually animated).  So, I was a bit worried that this wouldn't be up my ally and would be a bit taxing for me to sit and watch for an extended period of time.

I'll admit it.  It was awesome.  I know, I know.  Me, proclaiming such a movie, not just good, but awesome.  I have to say, it was probably one of the best movies I've seen in a LOOOONG time.  The story was easy enough to follow, with underlying emotion that was easy to relate to.  The muted colour gave it a great ambiance and the filming was beautiful.  The movement was amazing (ballet like in a way), and the depiction of violence and blood was done in an artistic way that it was serious, but not disgusting.  The ending was sad, but gave you a feeling of triumph and closure.  Definitely amazing.

Xerxes was crazy.

Leonitus was great.

The hole in the center of Sparta was convenient.

Leonitus' queen was wonderful, for so many reasons.

The costumes were wonderful.

If you haven't seen it, I highly suggest you watch it.  I think it's a marvelous piece of cinema (ooh, how pretentious am I?).  I think you won't be disappointed.