Expressionism in art or film represents a disruption in the barrier that divides the viewer from what is viewed. It draws them in, and forces an emotional reaction.
German films of the 20s & 30s used an organic process of lighting, perspective and acting style to first achieve expressionism in film. Nosferatu and M are two good examples.
In recent years, technical advancements have allowed film makers to take a different tack at expressionism, but so far they have only dabbled. In Fellowship of the Rings there is a scene where the Nazgul attack the hobbits on Weathertop. The standard narrative subsides and we are barraged by strange ghostly images and nerve shattering sounds. But soon the normal storytelling mode returns.
In 300, director Zack Snyder uses the same techniques but in a relentless fashion creating a visceral experience that no other movie has matched.
300 is based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel of the same name, which is itself based on the battle of Thermopylae where 300 Spartans stood against a massive Persian army.
The movie delivers on the theme of gallantry in the face of adversity and I had to resist the urge to stand up and cheer at the last scene.
I did feel certain elements detracted from the theme. Having the protagonists fight anything aside from men felt over the top and manipulative. The immense odds they faced as well as other elements of the film did a more than sufficient job at making you root for and fear for the 300. I also felt that switching back and forth between the story of the 300 and the story of Queen Gorgo -played well by Leena Heady- brought the overall intensity down a few notches.
The acting the rest of the cast was generally quite good, especially Gerard Butler as Leonidas. The range of emotion he can express with his eyes is amazing.
The setting, though disgusting at times, was quite appropriate. The magical world and its level of superstition showed a Greece as the Spartans thought it was. Very useful for creating understanding and sympathy for the 300.
300 is not for the faint of heart and is one of the most violent movies I have seen. If you are a lover of action films and aren’t easily disturbed by graphic violence you will love 300.
Rating: A-
