Photo by: Warner Brothers Pictures

Glorious, violent, political or provocative. No matter what words moviegoers use to describe the latest blockbuster, “300,” one thing is for certain: the film is sure to be a winner.

Based on the graphic novel by “Sin City” creator Frank Miller, “300” gives a fantasy-based rendition of the Grecian battle of Thermopylae in 480 B.C.

In the film, Spartan King Leonidas, played by Gerard Butler, refuses to surrender his Spartan city to the rule of Persian King Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro).

Instead, Leonidas gathers 300 troops to defend their city state at the cliffs of Thermopylae.

There, at the gates to Sparta, the warriors organize themselves into an unstoppable phalanx formation and wait until Xerxes sends his troops.

All the while, several oracles tell Leonidas that he will fall to the mighty Xerxes.

Not knowing that the priests giving the oracles were bribed by Xerxes, Leonidas refuses to surrender.

Back in Sparta, his wife Gorgo, played by Lena Headey, attempts to rally support for the Spartan troops and find the faith to remain strong while her husband’s life hangs in the balance.

The result is a collaboration of fantastical storytelling and breathtaking suspense.

Amazing special effects, including the famous bullet-time style, complement the story and emphasize the violence of war.

The blue screen techniques and overemphasis on lighting are clear but don’t take much away from an already great film.

As more and more films use computer effects techniques, audiences seem to be adjusting to new styles of directing and production.

However well-filmed and told “300” is suffused with violence, which some viewers may find disturbing and overdone.

Then again, when was war ever pretty? One thing is for certain, though: each character contributes an excellent piece to the entire collaboration.

Butler, known for his roles in “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Timeline,” portrays a truly believable Spartan King. His acting skills as a mighty leader and caring husband are unmatched.

He also creates synergy with his Spartan troops.

He cares about their lives and cares about their loyalty to Sparta. Rather than leading a group of bloodthirsty troops to battle, he continually reminds his troops about the stakes at hand and the families they are protecting back in Sparta.

Similarly, Lena Headey portrays a very independent queen during the entire process.

Headey’s interaction with Butler illustrates a very intriguing relationship built on politics and care for the common man.

Even the supporting actors give believability to the film. Unlike other Greek-based films, “300” presents men and women who transcend their era.

Each fallen Spartan makes audiences feel as if a family member has been lost.

In addition to the emotion and overall believable feel, “300” is also fairly short and concise.

Although the film seems longer, it’s actually barely two hours in length.

Nevertheless, every minute of the film provides sheer entertainment and excitement.

The story is easy to understand and demonstrates the qualities of great leadership and the rewards of glory.

The violence is an intrinsic part of the story and helps emphasize the sacrifices war exerts.

“300” is highly recommended and doesn’t disappoint.

Fans of “Sin City” or audiences looking for nonstop action will find the film worth the money.