Details from IMDB:
300: Rise of an Empire (2014)
102 min - Action | Drama | Fantasy - 7 March 2014 (USA)
Ratings: 7.0/10 from 49,143 users Metascore: 47/100
Reviews: 242 user | 248 critic | 33 from Metacritic.com
Greek general Themistokles leads the charge against invading Persian forces led by mortal-turned-god Xerxes and Artemisia, vengeful commander of the Persian navy.
Director:
Writers:
Zack Snyder (screenplay), Kurt Johnstad (screenplay), 1 more credit »
Stars:
Sullivan Stapleton, Eva Green, Lena Headey | See full cast and crew »
Initial Thoughts:
Like lots of people I saw the first movie, it was fun, had lots of action and a breakout performance from both Gerard Butler and Leana Headey. So the sequel finally came out, it was free popcorn night (and I wanted tickets for a showing of "Walking Dead" on Sunday) so we went.
Main Points:
The movie clearly both picks up and shows what happens before, during and after the battle with Sparata’s 300 men and quickly shows it has the same style of intense gore, slow downed dramatic action and of course blood spraying and spattering every which way. The problem with this installment is everything feels either re-hashed or just blown up to crazy levels.
I’m being overly negative though, there was things about this movie I liked. There is a pretty hot (and a little disturbing) sex scene. Some of the fight scenes are really good (and different from the first movie). Showing Xerxes back story was a nice touch and seeing the conflict in terms of all of Athens did broaden the story.
The big showdown between Themistocles and Artemisia was exciting (though predictable). I guess to say anymore does mean…
SPOILER ALERT!
Of course in this movie while Xerxes is not killed, the Greeks score a major victory against the Persian empire. Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) does show up for the final fight and rather bizarrely the traitor Ephialtes lives.
Final Thoughts:
Also aside from a tiny appearance from Lena Headey (and an okay performance from Eva Green), there’s just not much to recommend. 300 was different, even a little special. While I know this one is based on a graphic novel Frank Miller did, it seems more like he just wants some $ after the disaster of "The Spirit" (please don’t watch it like I did!). There is room left for a third movie but I can’t see going to the theater to watch it. 6/10 from me and I would only say go if you’re big fan of Frank Miller and/or super-bloody fighting movies. Also of course this movie is certainly not for kids (or anyone under 17). Next up will finally be my thoughts on "12 Years a Slave", have a great day everyone!
2 Comments
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The Cro's Nest 
It is moderately fun trash, even if there should have never been a sequel in the first place. Good review.
Agreed, I’ve read really good things about Captain America 2, hopefully it’s not an unneeded sequel 🙂 thanks for the comment, will be post another movie review tonight. Have a great day!