300 (DVD)

This is a visual feast of a film. Based on a comic book by Frank Miller the story of the doomed stand of 300 Spartans is trancended from history to legend. It looks like a comic strip come to life, and uses every cinematic and CGI trick to enhance the story. The characters are well drawn but deliciously cliched - this is legend, not fact - the heroes are heroic and the bad guys are quirkily nasty! There is also surprising humour from the Spartans, especially King Leonidas, a true refection of the Spartan way. The love between Leonidas and his Queen is both touching and tragic. The action and battle scenes are just breathtaking. Also, as a straight female, I can't complain about the sight of 300 buff, well built warriors wearing very little! Gerald Butler is brilliant as Leonidas and David Wenham is a terrific narrator. Queen Gorgo is played beautifully and Xerxes is thoroughly decadent.
This is not a film for those who like historical accuracy, but if you like epic fantasy, stunning visuals and fast action, then this is for you.