For the first time on Blu-ray comes The 300 Spartans, the iconic action classic about the epic 480 B.C. Battle of Thermopylae! Richard Egan stars as Spartan King Leonidas, who commands a small band of fearless Greek warriors in their defense of the civilized world’s last bastion of freedom. Impossibly out-numbered by the marauding forces of the totalitarian Persian Empire, these brave heroes will take no prisoners and never surrender—even unto death!
The late 1950's and early 60's were the golden age of the sword and sandal film that included mega epics like Ben Hur, Spartacus, Cleopatra and The Ten Commandments. Debuting on Blu-ray The 300 Spartans was released theatrically in 1962 and is a solid film that fans of this type of film would do well to take a look at. While the film does have some pacing issues early on the action picks up with some spectacular battle scenes. The costume work is one of my favorite aspects of these films and the craftsmanship looked to be of fine quality. Richard Egan stands out as the powerful Leonidas. 8/10
The 300 Spartans arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p transfer in the aspect ratio of 2.35:1 - Colors are a tad muted but there are flashes of brilliant primaries. Skin tones were consistently natural. The image is sharp overall and there was no print damage that I could see. Black levels were rendered well. There is a fine layer of film grain left that is pleasing to my eye. 8/10
Audio is provided by a DTS-HD Master Audio 1.0 track. - Despite being limited to the one channel clarity and fidelity was good. Dialogue was clear and intelligible throughout. No pops, cracks or hisses were heard. 7.5/10
* Theatrical Trailers (SD, 2min37sec) - Included are the English and Spanish trailer versions.
* TV Spots (SD, 1min38sec)
