Based on Frank Miller’s latest graphic novel Xerxes, and running parallel to the events in the first film, 300: Rise of an Empire tells the story from the point of view of the Athenians, culminating in the Battle of Salamis. Persia is still the antagonistic force, but depth is provided to the characters on the opposing side – even for the “god-king” Xerxes. This makes some reparation for the vilification that was so glaring in the first, drawing inevitable comparisons to strained relations between the US and Middle East in recent years to the point that the film was banned in Iran.
Many of the same themes are highlighted, albeit with a shift in focus towards brotherhood in combat. This portrayal is brought across most strongly in words, delivered by Themistocles, the general trying to unite all of Greece. Despite this focus, the camaraderie of the men is lacking, and was stronger in the previous film. The father/son theme is also re-introduced, but feels forced and extraneous. Despite a lot of the supporting characters feeling superfluous, the cast does a fine job – especially considering the return to the challenge of green screen work that the film employs.
Full Review here: http://www.fortressofsolitude.co.za/Movi...re-review/
Many of the same themes are highlighted, albeit with a shift in focus towards brotherhood in combat. This portrayal is brought across most strongly in words, delivered by Themistocles, the general trying to unite all of Greece. Despite this focus, the camaraderie of the men is lacking, and was stronger in the previous film. The father/son theme is also re-introduced, but feels forced and extraneous. Despite a lot of the supporting characters feeling superfluous, the cast does a fine job – especially considering the return to the challenge of green screen work that the film employs.
Full Review here: http://www.fortressofsolitude.co.za/Movi...re-review/