300 (2006), Director: Zack Snyder, rated R for graphic battle, sexuality, nudity

Prepare for Glory!

Starring: Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, David Wenham, Dominic West, Vincent Regan, Tom Wisdom, Michael Fassbender

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"No retreat, no surrender. That is Spartan law. And by Spartan law, we will stand and fight... and die." – Leonidas

Why watch this? Snyder's film-making fingerprint is on full display in this testosterone-packed adventure.

Plot Summary: In ancient Greece, King Leonidas leads 300 brave Spartan warriors to defend their city-state against the massive invading Persian army led by Xerxes. They take a stand at the narrow mountain pass of Thermopylae to hold back the vastly outnumbered Greeks. Despite the overwhelming odds, they fight fiercely and inspire the rest of Greece to unite against their common enemy.

Dad's Preview: This retelling of a great Spartan battle is intense and highly stylized. It is a hero's epic showcasing the fighting skills and bravery of a small group of soldiers who are betrayed by their own country. Like most Zach Snyder films, it is visually unique. Everyone in the film is gorgeous, and they have the CGI-enhanced abs to prove it. Though unrealistic, it's still a stunning film to behold. This was Gerard Butler's break-out film.

Legendary Pictures, Virtual Studios, Atmosphere Pictures; Warner Bros.