300 blogs about Frank Miller's '300'

The Battle of Marathon - 2500 year anniversary

2010-10-10T09:35:00.000-04:00

Please click the following link to read more about the 2500 year anniversary of the Battle of Marathon.

New poll - The Battle of King Leonidas

2009-07-08T03:00:00.000-04:00

There is a poll on the following blog whose results I am very curious about as far as the favorite actor to play King Leonidas. The actors are as follows -

Richard Egan - The 300 Spartans
Gerard Butler - 300
Brian Danner - Last Stand of the 300 - (Documentary)
Sean Maguire - Meet the Spartans - (Parody)

'300' prequel/sequel to star Gerard Butler???

2009-07-07T03:00:00.000-04:00

After the huge box office returns of Warner Bros. 300, there has been quite a bit of speculation about either a prequel or sequel to the Frank Miller comic book series based on the Battle of Thermopylae. If either one of these projects come to fruition, one thing is pretty certain and that is ........Gerard Butler will NOT be reprising his role as King Leonidas.

The reasons for this are quite simple!

A prequel to Thermopylae would be the Battle of Marathon which was an Athenian/Plataean victory over the Persians, 10 years earlier in 490 BCE. The Spartans arrived after the conclusion of the battle due to the strict adherence of their religious beliefs which prevented them from marching during the festival of Carneia.

The sequel would be the Battle of Plataea which was the ending scene after King Leonidas (Gerry Butler) is killed in 300, in one of the great last stands of all time.

Of course something ludicrous could be contrived (raised from the dead, for example), however, I believe that Butler has too much respect for the heroic Spartan king to be used in a money-making vehicle which makes a mockery of his death.

John Trikeriotis
http://300spartanwarriors.blogspot.com/

'Bringing Back the Blog'

2008-12-31T03:00:00.003-05:00

This blog has been relatively dormant over the last several years as all new materials with the respect to the Battle of Thermopylae have been posted to the 300spartanwarriors.com website. The main function has been to serve as an educational tool and to bring awareness to the Leonidas Expeditions.

A derivative of the website and probably one of its most gratifying functions is our group 'The Warriors of Thermopylae'. Photos from our appearances and announcements of future demonstrations and presentations will be posted there.

Therefore, due to the expansion of the website, along with increased activity for our Living History Group, it's been decided to 'Bring back the Blog'!!!

Frank Miller '300' Shield replica

2007-04-13T22:11:00.003-04:00

I had a chance recently to examine one of the Warner Bros. '300' shield replicas which were sold by the wholesale company NECA to retailers. Lately they've been selling on eBay for over $1,000, and sometimes much more than that. It's probably closer to $1,500. However, here is the kicker! Several of the eBay sellers in their listings are saying that this is "no. 3 of 300" or "lowest limited edition number" on ebay.

Upon closer inspection, it's only the box that is showing the limited edition number (unlike the signed limited edition lithograph) as it isn't reflected anywhere on the shield. So before you make that big purchase and see that you've bought no.1 of 300, no. 2 of 300, etc., etc., please be advised that in essence you are paying for the box that has this limited number written on there with magic marker, not your shield.

Warner Bros. '300' pays homage to a defining moment in Greek history

2007-03-06T08:30:00.002-05:00

On March 25th, our fellow Greeks and Philhellenes will observe Greek Independence Day, not only in our ancestors' birthplace, but throughout countries all around the world. This event holds much significance for many of us, as it honors Greece's declaration of independence on this day in 1821 against the Ottoman Empire's 400-year occupation and oppression. Kolokotronis, Bouboulina, Nikitara, Karaiskakis, Mpotsaris and the countless freedom fighters from the land of the Hellenes are honored and revered for their struggle which led Greece to be the proud independent nation which she is today.

Equally as important in the annals of our beloved Greece's modern history is OXI Day (phonetic, aw-hee), which is observed on October 28th of every year. This holiday is celebrated in commemorating General Ioannis Metaxas' defiant reply of 'oxi', to Benito Mussolini's ultimatum to allow Italian troops into Greece. This one word response precipitated Greece's formal entry into World War II and which culminated in the Hellenic forces repelling the invading Italian army all the way back into Albania.

Coincidentally, it is another laconic phrase in the Warner Bros. movie based on Frank Miller's '300' which will echo throughout cinemas around the world starting this week. The words Molon Labe (phonetic, Maw-lon Lah-veh), which spoken by King Leonidas of Sparta in 480 B.C., have resonated throughout history over the last 2,500 years. The translation which means 'Come and get them' will be spoken by Gerard Butler who portrays the legendary Spartan king who spearheaded the defense of Thermopylae.

According to Herodotus and other historians, the Greek garrison which consisted of approximately 7,000 hoplites, 300 of whom were King Leonidas' fellow Spartiates, held off the numerically superior Persian army for several days. Several scholars, researchers and contemporary historians have conservatively estimated the invading force of Xerxes I at 200,000 warriors, comprised from a multitude of nations from the east.

For two days, the 300 Spartans and their allies inflicted heavy losses on the invaders before their position was compromised by a Malian traitor. On the third day, rather than surrender, the remaining Spartans and the remnants of the Thespian contingent which originally numbered 700, fought to the death so that their countrymen could withdraw safely. It was their heroic self-sacrifice which inspired their Greek countrymen to subsequent victories at Salamis, Plataea and Mykale.

Therefore, this movie pays homage to not only King Leonidas and the heroic '300' and their fight for freedom, it also pays tribute to Greece, the birthplace of democratic principles.

John Trikeriotis
www.theleonidasexpedition.com
www.300spartanwarriors.com

The 2010 Leonidas Expedition

2006-12-31T03:00:00.002-05:00

There are several questions that have remained unanswered relative to the Battle of Thermopylae for approximately 2,500 years. One of these is the site of the Phokian skirmish and another is the path that was used by the Immortals to encircle King Leonidas, the remaining Spartan, Thespian and Theban warriors?

To read about the 2010 Leonidas Expedition and its objectives, please access the following site.

MOLON LABE!!!

Archived index of "300 blogs about Frank Miller's '300' "

2006-07-09T03:00:00.000-04:00

In an effort to facilitate matters relative to the postings about Frank Miller's '300', this blog will contain an index of all the most recent archived materials. Each day's posting will be directly underneath this one, however, the first 150 blogs can be accessed by clicking on the following link.

Blog Number 171 - Video Journal #4 for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-03-02T03:00:00.000-05:00

Video Journal #4 is very interesting since it is narrated by the costume designer Michael Wilkinson who gave the audience insight into the making of the clothes worn by the actors. It also gave us a brief glimpse at Xerxes, the king of the Persian army who will be played by the Brazilian actor Rodrigo Santoro.

The sight of the bejeweled Santoro pretty much has taken the mystery out of how the last major character will appear. This also pretty much confirms that the appearance of the actors will coincide with the look of Frank Miller's '300' illustrations.

Blog Number 170 - Critics of Frank Miller's '300'

2006-03-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

Occasionally I'll check out the IMDB boards to see what the latest topics and responses are to the '300' posts. It seems that several of the prognosticators and pontificators have criticized the movie before it has even premiered.

The primary reason for the abuse that has been heaped on '300' is that the movie will not be an accurate portrayal of the Battle of Thermopylae. Do I agree with this assessment? Absolutely!!! However, what has to be remembered is that '300' will be a reflection of the comic books as written by Frank Miller, not a documentary based on the works of Herodotus.

Blog Number 169 - Recommended reading along with Frank Miller's '300'

2006-02-28T03:00:00.000-05:00

Since the momentum has slowed down because of the year we will have to wait for Frank Miller's '300' to premier, I will recommend several books in the next several postings to satiate your interest relative to the 300 Spartans and the Battle of Thermopylae.

Blog Number 168 - Update to Zack Snyder's Production Blog

2006-02-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

Zack Snyder has updated his Production Blog to discuss the reasons why he chose Mark Twight as the individual who would train the cast and stuntmen. Pretty good stuff!

Blog Number 167 - Training regimen for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-02-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

In Blog Number 158, I included Video Journal #3 which showed the training regimen of the Spartiates. Since the Spartans would be filmed without armor, it was essential that they look the part of muscled warriors. After looking at the video clip and the exercises that the extras went through, they definitely look the part.

Blog Number 166 - Recycled sets & props for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-02-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

I initially had reservations about the movie's budget of $60-$70 million as did quite a few others. However, after looking at the stills and movie clips, especially of Video Journal #2 which I featured in Blog Number 131, the set designer's ability to recycle sets and props could bring the final numbers in line with their projections. Case in point, if you listen to James Bissell's commentary, a sculpted rock was used over and over for about 9 times.

It is this kind of economy that will allow the money to be used for the necessary digital effects. This should allow Zack Snyder to complete '300' as the vision which Frank Miller intended.

Blog Number 165 - Another image of the Tomb of King Leonidas of Sparta

2006-02-24T03:00:00.000-05:00

In Blog Number 122, I included an image of a French postcard of the Tomb of Leonidas which I acquired several years ago. This is a better image for which I have to thank the Laconian Professionals for providing.

Yiasou patriotes!

Blog Number 164 - Thermopylai, Myth & Reality in 480 B.C.

2006-02-23T03:00:00.000-05:00

One of the more interesting books about the Battle of Thermopylae is this one co-authored by G.J. Szemler, W.J. Cherf and J.C. Kraft. There are several books which I recommend about Thermopylae and this one being one of those, since it uses geographic analyses to arrive at several interesting conclusions.

Blog Number 163 - Lion of Sparta comic book

2006-02-22T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the 'Lion of Sparta' comics which the movie 'The 300 Spartans' was to be originally called. I will be posting several of the images from this comic book over the next several days.

Blog Number 162 - National Geographic illustration of the Battle of Thermopylae

2006-02-21T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is another image of the Battle of Thermopylae, this time from a National Geographic issue. This painting was illustrated by H.M. Herget whose work was featured in many of the National Geographic issues of the 1930's & 1940's.

Blog Number 161 - Illustration of Xerxes

2006-02-20T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is an illustration of Xerxes, the king of Persia from Mary Renault's 'Lion in the Gateway'. All the images which I've included from this book were illustrated by C. Walter Hodges and this one captures the difference between King Leonidas who will be played by Gerry Butler and Xerxes who will be played by Rodrigo Santoro. While Leonidas fought with his 300 Spartiates and perished with them, the Persian king was safe and sound on his throne, overlooking the fighting and impervious to any of the fighting beneath.

Blog Number 160 - Another illustration of King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2006-02-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is another illustration of King Leonidas from Mary Renault's 'Lion in the Gateway'. This book was published in 1964, therefore, I've wondered if Renault wrote the book after having watched the 1962 movie, 'The 300 Spartans'.

Blog Number 159 - Illustration of King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2006-02-18T15:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the cover to the book 'The Lion in the Gateway' which was written by Mary Renault in the early 60's. Depicted in this illustration is King Leonidas of the 300 Spartans who will be portrayed by Gerry Butler in Frank Miller's '300'.

Blog Number 158 - Video Journal #3 for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-02-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a link to the third Video Journal for Frank Miller's '300' which is on the Yahoo website.

Blog Number 157 - Post-production for Frank Miller' '300'

2006-02-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

Now that Frank Miller's '300' has finished filming as of the end of January, the post-production work has begun which means that the raw video footage and audio elements have been completed.

Now the editing, titling, special effects insertion, image enhancement and audio mixing will be be added and refined to bring the finished product to the masses in the summer of 2007.

Blog Number 156 - Statue of a Spartan warrior training

2006-02-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

This is an image of a Spartan warrior training in the nude. Since the armor that the hoplites wore was so heavy, it was placed on minutes before the battle since it comprised about half of the weight of the warrior.

Blog Number 155 - Statue of a Spartan warrior

2006-02-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a statue of a Spartan warrior that closely resembles the illustrations of Frank Miller in that the warrior is without the cuirass, greaves and other clothing that he would have worn at Thermopylae.

Blog Number 154 - Mosaic of King Leonidas

2006-02-13T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a very rare mosaic that was given to me as a present several years ago of King Leonidas with the words MOLON LABE.

I'm always on the lookout for unique items that pertain to the Spartans, therefore, receiving this was a wonderful surprise!

Blog Number 153 - The '300' Spartans at Thermopylae by Richard Hook

2006-02-12T03:00:00.000-05:00

This is another image of the final stand at Thermopylae by 'artiste extraodinaire' Richard Hook. This illustration is from the book 'The Spartan Army' by Nicholas Sekunda.

Blog Number 152 - Frank Miller '300' bookmark

2006-02-11T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is an image of a Frank Miller '300' bookmark which is pretty rare. Even though this is pretty hard to find, it pales in comparison to the signed lithograph, of which only 3oo were signed by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley.

Blog Number 151 - Frank Miller '300' promo card

2006-02-10T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is an image of a Frank Miller '300' promo card which probably is the most recognizable image from the comics. This is the helmet of King Leonidas who will be portrayed by Scottish actor Gerry Butler.

Blog Number 150 - 150th blog of '300'

2006-02-09T03:00:00.000-05:00

When I started writing this web blog in September of 2005, it seemed like a mammoth undertaking trying to find material which wouldn't be repetitive. Well, I have hit the halfway mark and have to thank all the readers who have contributed comments. If it wasn't for you, I would be left scratching my head trying to come up with new topics.

Thank you for the inspiration!!!

Blog Number 149 - '300' Spartans' cuirass

2006-02-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is an image of a cuirass which I mentioned in Blog Number 147. The bronze 'muscle' cuirass was as Nicholas Sekunda wrote in his book 'The Spartan Army' 'modelled to the musculature of the body'.

As the shield, greaves and helmet were essential protective devices, so was the cuirass which has been noticeably absent from the Frank Miller '300' comics.

Blog Number 148 - Frank Miller '300' Spartans interview

2006-02-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

I read another interesting Frank Miller interview today in Sci Fi Wire where he talks about '300'. Miller also mentions that the movie 'The 300 Spartans', 'changed the whole course of my creative life'.

Blog Number 147 - Greek Spartan statue

2006-02-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a nice little statue which I bought years ago and which shows the armor which would have been worn by the Spartan defenders at Thermopylae.

The main protective pieces of armor are all included on the statue which consist of the Corinthian helmet, the shield and the cuirass which was the body armor which covered the chest and back.

Blog Number 146 - 'The Persian Wars' by A.R. Burn

2006-02-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

Another book which I highly recommend is 'The Persian Wars' by A.R. Burn which I obtained in the mid-'80's. When this book was originally published in 1962 it was entitled 'Persia and the Greeks'.

Interestingly enough, 'The Greco-Persian Wars' book written by Peter Green which I mentioned in Blog Number 145 was entitled 'Xerxes at Salamis' when first published in 1970.

It seems as if the titles of the books change with the newer reprints. The newer introductions and prefaces to the books are very illuminating since the authors discuss the reasons for revising their original books.

Blog Number 145 - 'The Greco-Persian Wars' by Peter Green

2006-02-04T03:00:00.000-05:00

In Blog Number 89, I mentioned the books written by Herodotus who is known as the father of history. Since Herodotus is the primary author of the Greek-Persian Wars and in particular the Battle of Thermopylae, all subsequent books have referenced his works.

In my opinion, Peter Green's book 'The Greco-Persian Wars' is one of the most informative books ever written about the Persian invasions of Greece. Herodotus' account of the number of warriors in the Persian army has been discounted by many authors and scholars, however, Professor Green's theory that there were between 210,000-300,000 infantrymen is probably one of the most plausible.

If you have read Frank Miller's '300', this is one book that I would highly recommend!

Blog Number 144 - The Spartan Rhetra

2006-02-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Spartan Rhetra are the laws written by Lycurgus whom I mentioned in Blog Number 143. It took me quite a while to obtain this book, however, it was well worth the wait because it contains a wealth of information for those who are interested in Sparta and her military, economic and social policies.

Some of the examples that Lycurgus wrote about which are included in this book are that the Spartiates should wear crimson-colored tunics and that they should wear their hair long in the belief that it would make them look more taller and more terrifying.

Blog Number 143 - Lycurgus, father of Sparta

2006-02-02T03:00:00.000-05:00

The laws that were followed by the citizens of Sparta were said to be written by Lycurgus, the legendary lawgiver, however, it is not known whether he really existed.

What is known is that Lycurgus or a composite lawgiver is responsible for the iron code of rules by which King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans trained to perfection.

Blog Number 142 - 'The 300 Spartans' bootleg

2006-02-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a copy of a VHS bootleg of 'The 300 Spartans' which my good friend Pete gave to me a couple of years ago before the movie was re-released on DVD. I hadn't seen the movie in quite a few years, therefore, after I received it, I must have seen it more times in one week than I did all the times previously combined.

Frank Miller has stated that this movie was what inspired him to write '300'.

Thanks Pete!!!

Blog Number 141 - Daily Kos blogger mentions the '300' Spartans

2006-01-31T03:00:00.000-05:00

One of the most visible and political blogs on the internet, Daily Kos had an overview of the 300 Spartans and the Battle of Thermopylae which appeared January 12th, 2006.

Since my blog is apolitical, I included the the link because the battle is neatly condensed into eight paragraphs.

Blog Number 140 - One of the reasons why Ephialtes was not part of the '300' Spartans' phalanx

2006-01-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

If you had a chance to view Video Journal #2, you will notice that the character Ephialtes had a difficult time holding his shield in the correct position.

According to Frank Miller's version of the Battle of Thermopylae, it was Ephialtes' inability to hold his shield which was the primary reason King Leonidas wouldn't allow him to stand in line with the other Spartans. Since the phalanx depended on the regimented cohesiveness of the unit, one warrior's ineffectiveness could lead the phalanx into disarray.

Blog Number 139 - Another historical element added to Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

While reviewing the IMDB credited cast for '300', another interesting character appeared. The role of the 'free Greek baker' played by Marcel Jeannin had originated not with the Frank Miller comics, however, this character is one who had been added to flesh out the story.

There were other Greek city-states who fought at Thermopylae besides Sparta, therefore, this character is a great addition to the movie. In Blog Number 119, I mentioned the other city-states that fought along with King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans. I believe that the 'free Greek baker' is one of the approximately 900 helots who were present at Thermopylae in 480 B.C.

Blog Number 138 - Stuntmen for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-28T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's something of interest to ponder about several of the actors in the cast of Frank Miller's '300'. If you look at the IMDB biographies of many of the cast members playing unnamed Spartans, they seem to have an extensive background in stunt work.

Blog Number 137 - Centurion in Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

Occasionally, I will go to the IMDB website to see if there are any new additions to the cast of '300'. There was one entry that really had me scratching my head and that was that Dylan Smith would be playing the part of the Centurion. It wasn't that Dylan Smith would be in the cast, it was that there was a character called the Centurion.

When I hear the word Centurion, I immediately think of a Roman officer commanding a unit of 100 soldiers. However, since it seems that all the major roles of the Spartans and Andrew Pleavin as Daxos have been named, I will assume then that the Centurion is the character who will be commanding the elite 10,000 man unit of the Persian army called the Immortals.

Exponentially it works out perfectly 100 x 100 = 10,000!

Blog Number 136 - Ephialtes in Video Journal # 2

2006-01-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

The first Video Journal which was narrated by Zack Snyder gave us our first glimpse into the look of how King Leonidas and the Spartans would be portrayed.

Video Journal #2 was even more informative as it basically confirmed that the Immortals would appear as depicted in Frank Miller's '300'. It also gave us the first look at Ephialtes even though it was from a distance. However, now we know that Andrew Tiernan will be wearing prosthetics as opposed to how Gollum was created using CGI technology in Peter Jackson's 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy written by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Blog Number 135 - Map of the last stand of the '300' Spartans

2006-01-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a map of the last stand of the '300' Spartans at Thermopylae and an image of the actual location which I included in Blog Number 81 from Peter Connolly's book entitled 'Greece and Rome at War'.

Blog Number 134 - Hydarnes, leader of the Immortals

2006-01-24T03:00:00.000-05:00

Since they stood out so prominently in the video journal linked in Blog Number 131, the last several postings have been about Xerxes' personal bodyguard of 10,000 warriors known as the Immortals.

According to Herodotus, the commander of this elite Persian unit was Hydarnes, who incidentally was played by Donald Houston in 'The 300 Spartans'.

Blog Number 133 - The Immortals of the Persian army

2006-01-23T03:00:00.000-05:00

In Blog Number 131, we were provided the first look at several members of the cast wearing masks who will portray the Immortals. The Immortals were the crack unit of 10,000 warriors who comprised the royal bodyguard of Xerxes, the king of Persia. They were named the Immortals because whenever one of these elite warriors would die of wounds received in battle or of sickness, another replacement would fill in the ranks, thereby, keeping the unit at 10,000 strong.

Blog Number 132 - Frank Miller '300' Immortals

2006-01-22T03:00:00.000-05:00

If there was ever any doubt about whether or not '300' would conform to the Frank Miller comics, these thoughts should now be laid to rest.

While watching the video journal which I included in Blog Number 131, it became apparent that the masked extras being filmed represented the Immortals who were the elite 10,000 man unit of Xerxes' army. These Immortals conform to the Frank Miller illustrations as does Gerry Butler as King Leonidas and the other Spartan warriors.

From a historical viewpoint the Spartans are devoid of much of the armor which they would have worn at Thermopylae. For comparative purposes, I've also included a link to an illustration of one of the Immortals as how they would have appeared in 480 B.C.

Blog Number 131 - Video Journal #2 for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-21T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a link to Superhero Hype which has the second video journal from Frank Miller's '300'. As much as I enjoyed viewing the first video journal, I liked this one even more.

Enjoy!!!

Blog Number 130 - Lena Heady talks '300'

2006-01-20T03:00:00.000-05:00

Frank Miller's '300' will have a cast pretty much dominated by males, which isn't suprising since this is a war movie with a little political intrigue thrown in for good measure. Therefore, it has been easy to overlook the role of Queen Gorgo who will be played by Lena Heady.

Here's a link to Superhero Hype which contains an interview with the aforementioned Lena Heady who will be playing opposite Gerry Butler. In '300' when King Leonidas goes off to battle the Persians at Thermopylae, Queen Gorgo will be left to 'hold the fort down' and fight against political subterfuge in Sparta.

Therefore, it seems that Zack Snyder's rewrite will show the battle on two fronts, King Leonidas at Thermopylae and Queen Gorgo in Sparta.

Blog Number 129 - 'Good, then we shall fight in the shade!'

2006-01-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

According to Herodotus, the Spartiati Dienekes (Dieneces) was told that the Persian army was so large, that when they fought 'Their arrows would blot out the sun'. To which he replied, 'Good, then we shall fight in the shade!'

In the Frank Miller comics, these words are spoken by the young Spartan warrior Stelios. Therefore, we can expect Michael Fassbender to speak these immortal words in '300'.

Blog Number 128 - Short shooting schedule vs. longer release date for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-18T03:00:00.000-05:00

When I first read that Frank Miller's '300' would take only three months to film, I was astounded to say the least. Even more astonishing is the fact that the cast were given weeks off for the holidays, therefore, the shoot will be even more abbreviated. I assumed that with the lightning fast speed that it would take to film the 'live' actors, the movie would be released in breakneck fashion sometime in 2006.

However, according to an article written by Edward Douglas of Superhero Hype which I mentioned in Blog Number 126, it seems that the movie will be released during the summer of 2007. This will be almost a year and half after the filming of the cast which is scheduled to be wrapped up this month.

It seems that there will be an inverse correlation between filming and the time that it takes to work on the computer generated images. Yes, there will be a shorter shooting schedule with the cast, however, it is evident that it will take a much longer time to computer generate the landscapes, Persian army, corpses and even the 300 Spartans for that matter, since it seemed as if there were only 20-25 Spartan extras in Zack Snyder's video journal.

Blog Number 127 - Conflicting release dates for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

Two articles which appeared within two weeks of each other mentioned different release dates for Frank Miller's '300' starring Gerry Butler as King Leonidas, David Wenham as Dilios, Michael Fassbender as Stelios, etc.

In Blog Number 112, James Christopher mentioned that '300' would be released around the end of 2006 while in Blog Number 126, Edward Douglas wrote that the movie was to be scheduled for release during the summer of 2007.

This is reminiscent of the speculation which brewed over the city where the movie would be filmed. It was first announced that '300' would be filmed in Toronto and then it was later changed to Montreal, Canada.

If the trend continues, the latest news seems to be the most accurate, therefore, I believe the movie will be released in the summer of 2007.

Blog Number 126 - Revision! Frank Miller's '300' to be released in the summer of 2007

2006-01-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

I mentioned in Blog Number 112, that according to James Christopher of the U.K.'s Times Online, Frank Miller's '300' would be released around Christmas 2006.

Well, that seems to have changed now because according to Edward Douglas of Superhero Hype, Warner Bros. intends on releasing '300' during the summer of 2007.

Blog Number 125 - Irishman Michael Fassbender (Stelios in Frank Miller's '300') fan sites

2006-01-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here are several Michael Fassbender sites which have visited the '300' blog on many occasions. I thought I should mention them since Michael Fassbender will be potraying the young Spartan warrior Stelios.

The sites are An Angel Underneath & Fassbender Fans and they contain a wealth of information for those who wish to know more about the actor who will have a prominent role in '300'.

Blog Number 124 - Meaning of Thermopylae

2006-01-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

The name Thermopylae comes from the two Greek words which mean Hot (Thermo) Gates (Pylae). It is aptly named so because of the nearby hot springs which people still visit today because of the belief in their curative powers.

Blog Number 123 - January 12th update of Zack Snyder's '300' Production blog

2006-01-13T03:00:00.000-05:00

I had a chance to look at the newest update to Zack Snyder's production blog which shows scenes of a Spartan agora that was constructed rather than created digitally.

This once again reaffirms my belief that '300' will be much more than what Frank Miller wrote about in his comic book series. Since this scene is only illustrated in one panel of the comics, I believe quite a bit will occur in the marketplace. It is evident that Zack Snyder seems to be conscious of production overruns, therefore, I don't feel that the money spent for this set will be only for cosmetic purposes.

Now the question is what will happen?

Blog Number 122 - Tomb of King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2006-01-12T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is an image of a French postcard which I acquired several years ago which legend has it shows the tomb of King Leonidas, leader of the 300 Spartans of Thermopylae.

If you would like to read more about this image and the reburial of King Leonidas, please go to the following link.

Blog Number 121 - CG and shake artists needed for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-11T03:00:00.000-05:00

The text below is from an e-mail which another reader, or should I say participant, sent to me. As with all the info that I've received, the person(s) wish(es) to remain anonymous. I've been fortunate to be the recipient of some great information which I have always confirmed before posting. Since time is an issue here, I thought I would post it immediately since it seems like the real/reel deal. Yes, that pun was intended and I know it was lousy, however, I couldn't resist!

Best of luck, if you apply!!!
---------------------------------------------------
Highly creative, experianced (sic) and self motivated CG and Shake artists required for high profile production currently shooting. You will be based in Burbank and working directly with the VFX Supervisor for the producton in a small select team.

This is an opportunity to work with the shot material prior to it being distriubted (sic) to Vendors. This is a highly stylized production and requires the ablilty to work toward the Directors unique vision. You must be able to work under pressure and to set deadlines. No-one will be considered without a showreel.

Position required between - 9th Jan / Mid April or March (TBD)

Great Opportunity for Frank Miller Fans

Please send Resumes and Reels to...

VFX Dept
Les 300 Films
2595 Place Chasse
2nd Floor
MontrealCanada
H3Y 2C3

Blog Number 120 - Aussie David Wenham (Dilios in Frank Miller's '300') fan sites

2006-01-10T03:00:00.000-05:00

There are quite a few websites devoted to Gerard Butler who will play King Leonidas in Frank Miller's '300'. By far the most active is GerardButler.net whose members frequently visit these pages and leave comments which I always enjoy reading.

Since my fellow Aussie countryman David Wenham will be playing the role of the Spartan storyteller Dilios, I thought I would list several of the websites which have frequented the '300' web blog. Two of these are Dessicated Coconut and Wenham-Wonderland and if you want to learn more about this actor from 'the land down under' who will be playing one of the 300 Spartans, these would be the websites to frequent.

Blog Number 119 - Greek warriors who fought with King Leonidas and the '300' Spartans

2006-01-09T03:00:00.000-05:00

One of the misconceptions of the Battle of Thermopylae is that only the 300 Spartans fought against the Persian army. This has probably been reinforced by the titles of Frank Miller's '300' and the 1962 movie, 'The 300 Spartans'.

For those who have read/and or seen the aforementioned book or movie, there has been mention made of some of the other Greek warriors who fought with the 300 Hippeis of King Leonidas' personal bodyguard. Therefore, for those who have not read the historical accounts of the battle, here is the breakdown of the united army of Greece:

They are as follows:

300 Spartans
700 Thespians
400 Thebans
500 Tegeans
500 Mantineans
120 from Orchomenus
1000 Arcadians
400 from Corinth
200 from Phlius
80 from Mycenae
1000 Phocians
1000 from Locris, etc.
900 helots

Blog Number 118 - Address of Icestorm Digital Studio where Frank Miller's '300' is being filmed

2006-01-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

The address of Mel's Cite du Cinema's Icestorm Digital Studio location where they are shooting Frank Miller's '300' starring Gerry Butler as King Leonidas, David Wenham as Dilios, Michael Fassbender as Stelios, etc. is 2595 Place Chassé, Montréal, QC H1Y 2C3.

Blog Number 117 - Azam Ali to be featured on Tyler Bates '300' score

2006-01-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

An e-mail that I received from Tyler Bates mentioned that Azam Ali, the Iranian born renowned 'world music' vocalist will be featured during the score that he is composing for Frank Miller's '300'.

In addition, Ms. Ali is collaborating and recording together with Tyler on the project Roseland which they are nearing completion. To hear Azam she can be heard on the following websites niyazmusic.com or tylerbates.com.

In addition, if you would like to read Azam Ali's biography, please click on the blog number as it will direct you to her latest news.

Blog Number 116 - Tyler Bates' 'The Stand' promo from Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

Since the playlist for Tyler Bates' website is constantly revolving, here is the link to 'The Stand' promo composed for Frank Miller's '300'. The link will allow you to access the song irrespective of the current playlist which might not reflect the song on that particular day. Enjoy!!!

Blog Number 115 - Multicultural appeal of Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

Frank Miller's '300' comics have been translated into different languages and since the story of the 300 Spartans and the Battle of Thermopylae has appealed to many different cultures, I thought I would provide a link which will allow those readers to be able to read my blogs in their native tongue.

If you click on the flag for for the language of your choice, the pages that you access should be translated. Forgive me as I am in the process of trying to find another link which will translate into more languages.

Blog Number 114 - Frank Miller's '300' - Barometer for the movie industry?

2006-01-04T03:00:00.000-05:00

Apparently a $60-70 million dollar budget will suffice when it comes to Frank Miller's Battle of Thermopylae movie '300'. According to James Christopher's article which is featured in Blog Number 112, '300' could be a turning point with respect to financial conservatism.

If this movie is a success, it seems that many more studios would be willing to opt for this technology rather than then spending the big bucks on the movie sets and protracted shoots.

It seems that Hollywood will be watching how this turns out since it could impact movies in the future. Therefore, who knows we could see another Battle of Thermopylae movie in the future, like..........Steven Pressfield's 'Gates of Fire'.

Who knows, anything would be possible if costs could be scaled back. Therefore, I would be curious to hear your opinion.

Blog Number 113 - Inaccuracy of Herodotus' number of Persians vs. '300' Spartans

2006-01-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

Perhaps the greatest source of controversy relative to Herodotus' account of the Battle of Thermopylae is the size of the Persian army. Herodotus' wrote that the size of the Persian army was approximately 1,700,000 men, however, historians over the years have calculated that number to a much more conservative range between 150-300,000 men.

Even so, the number of Persian troops amassed at Thermopylae was still much larger than the Greek army led by King Leonidas & his 300 Spartans which consisted of approximately 7,000 hoplites.

Blog Number 112 - Frank Miller's '300' 2006 Christmas release date

2006-01-02T03:00:00.000-05:00

According to James Christopher of the U.K.'s Times Online, Frank Miller's '300' is scheduled to be released around Christmas this year.

There's an interesting paragraph written about '300' that you might enjoy reading in the article, which can be accessed by clicking on the Blog Number.

Blog Number 111 - New Year's prediction for Frank Miller's '300'

2006-01-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

With filming scheduled to be wrapped up around the end of this month, it seems that Frank Miller's '300' will be released sometime in 2006. So here's my prediction for 2006 and the release of '300':

I think that '300' will recoup the money spent and earn much more with pretty good box office receipts, DVD sales and merchandising tie-ins. All of this I'm sure will be scrutinized by George Clooney's Maysville Pictures, who at one time were to produce Steven Pressfield's version of the Battle of Thermopylae entitled 'Gates of Fire'.

If '300' is a success which I believe it will be, I think that Maysville Pictures will reevaluate their position on 'GOF' and sometime in the near future we could see another movie based on the story of the 300 Spartans.

Have a Happy New Year!

Cheers,

John

Blog Number 110 - Tyler Bates, Composer & lyricist for Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-31T03:00:00.000-05:00

I received a nice e-mail from Tyler Bates who is the composer for Frank Miller's '300' and he said that it was his 'intention to transform a couple of the score cues into lyric driven songs, for the end credits'.

As far as I'm concerned, the music which accompanies a movie is a vital part and important to the visual element. To illustrate this, if your TV or entertainment system has the capability, try close-captioning with the volume turned off. You will be able to now read the dialogue without any sound and then when you turn it back on you will notice how much the music impacted the scene. It is a very powerful medium which does much to enhance the storyline and which I hope to hear more of Tyler Bates score before '300' is released.

Have a Happy New Year everyone!

Blog Number 109 - Composer Tyler Bates' 'The Stand' in Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

Tyler Bates, the composer of the score for Frank Miller's '300' has introduced a snippet of music on his website which will be used in the movie entitled 'The Stand'.

Blog Number 108 - History of Ice Storm Studios in Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

In January 2002, the Toronto-based Moliflex-White Group purchased the Ice Storm Studios located in the former Angus shipyards in north-central Montreal. These facilities had been used for various shoots, including 'The Secret Adventures of Jules Verne'.

In late 2003, Ice Storm Studios had been placed under bankruptcy protection with the deal brokered by PricewaterhouseCoopers, which acted as the court-appointed receiver. Mel's Cite du Cinema then acquired Ice Storm Studios with Pricewaterhouse Coopers acting as the intermediary in the sale.

All of this brings us to the current location of the shooting of '300'. It's off the beaten path, however, they are filming it at Ice Storm!

Blog Number 107 - Spartans in Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-28T03:00:00.000-05:00

There was never any doubt in my mind that the Persian army would be duplicated via computer generated imagery since it would have been impracticable to hire so many extras. It is apparent from the Zack Snyder Video Journal that not only will the Persian army be duplicated en masse with the use of CGI, the 300 Spartans will also.

From what I have seen of the journal there appear to be about 20+ Spartans in the sequences, therefore, those numbers will have to be increased exponentially.

Blog Number 106 - Molon Labe in '300'

2005-12-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a plaque of the immortal words spoken by King Leonidas at Thermopylae which I mentioned in Blog Number 29. In Zack Snyder's Video Journal, Gerry Butler who plays Leonidas is seen giving a speech to his warriors before the battle. Unfortunately, we don't hear this phrase in the clip presented, therefore, we'll have to wait for the movie to be released.

Blog Number 105 - 'R' rating for Frank Miller's '300'?

2005-12-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

I had a chance to pore through the images on Zack Snyder's 'Production Blog' and am pretty convinced that this movie will be 'R' rated. A 'PG' rating would make it more accessible to a larger audience, however, after viewing the image of a sword through the mid-section of a mannequin, this reinforces my belief that Frank Miller's '300' won't be a movie for the younger crowd.

Blog Number 104 - Video Journal from Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a link to the Video Journal which is narrated by Zack Snyder, the director of Frank Miller's '300'. Very interesting!!!

Blog Number 103 - Concept art from Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-24T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here are one of the images from the Concept Art section from the '300' movie website. As can be seen, the pass of Thermopylae will be depicted as a narrow passage between two mountains.

Blog Number 102 - Aussie David Wenham as Dilios will survive the Battle of Thermopylae in '300'

2005-12-23T15:00:00.000-05:00

After seeing the images from Zack Snyder's production blog, it seems as if the look of the '300' will mirror the illustrations from Frank Miller comics. The question which still remains is, will the storyline follow the book's narrative?

For example, in chapter one of the '300' comics, the character Dilios is shown telling his tale of King Leonidas' youth to the Spartan warriors who sit gathered around the campfire before the battle at Thermopylae.

In chapter five, at the battlefield of Plataea, Dilios who is wearing an eyepatch this time, sits around a campfire with a newly assembled group of Spartiates. It is at this gathering that he tells his the story of their fellow countrymen who valiantly died at Thermopylae.

Therefore, we can assume that since Dilios is shown in the last chapter, he has survived the wounds that were inflicted upon him by the Persians at Thermopylae.

I for one feel that with a little tweak here and there, the story will capture the essence of Frank Miller's '300'. The question is, will this revisionism deter those who want to see a more historically accurate retelling of the battle?

Blog Number 101 - '300' Production blog

2005-12-22T03:00:00.000-05:00

Finally, a website from Warner Bros! One of the features is a production blog written by Zack Snyder, the director of '300'. According to the website there will be more updates to follow, however, for the time being feast your eyes on the 'Concept Art'.

Blog Number 100 - Location of Frank Miller's '300' filming revealed

2005-12-21T03:00:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned before, I've been fortunate to have several readers of my web log who have provided me with some real nuggets of information. Therefore, what better way is there than to celebrate the milestone of my 100th blog by announcing the location of the filming of Frank Miller's '300'. Can I have a drum roll, please???

The location is: Icestorm Digital Studio Inc. in

Montreal, Quebec.

Much, much more to follow!!!

Blog Number 99 - The top 10 items that a Frank Miller '300' enthusiast should own

2005-12-20T03:00:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow will be my 100th blog and what better way to celebrate than to announce the exact location of the filming of Frank Miller's '300' in Montreal, Canada.

Here is a list (subjective, of course) of what every '300' fan should own! Get your pocketbooks ready, since some of these items are rare, rare, rare and even more expensive, expensive, expensive!!!

1) Frank Miller '300' signed limited edition lithograph
2) Frank Miller '300' promo poster
3) '300' lapel pin
4) '300' bookmark
5) '300' promo card
6) '300' hardcover - English
7) '300' hardcover - Greek
8) '300' hardcover - Spanish
9) '300' hardcover - Italian
10) '300' softcover - comics

Blog Number 98 - Map of the Persian invasion of Greece

2005-12-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a map which shows the route of Xerxes' army which is highlighted in red. It was quite an accomplishment amassing such a large group of warriors along with logistics of food, water, etc. which are even more mind-boggling.

To view an enlarged version of the map, please click the image.

Thanks Sadieanne!

Blog Number 97 - The death of King Leonidas in Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-18T03:00:00.000-05:00

In Blog Number 78, I included an illustration by Peter Connolly of the last day of fighting at Thermopylae. This image shows the remaining Greek warriors who stood in the widest part of the pass which would allow them to inflict the greatest amount of casualties.

In the first two days, the Greek army was constricted by the width of the pass, however, in a wider part of the battlefield which they occupied on the last day, they were able to spread their lines so that they could face more of the enemy at a given time. King Leonidas knew that it would only be a short period of before they would be surrounded.

It was during this part of the battle that the Spartan king died. Two of Xerxes' brothers died along with many other Persians who tried in vain several times to seize the body of Leonidas before the remaining Spartans were finally able to deny them.

One of the most memorable scenes in 'The 300 Spartans' is when the Persian envoy asks for the body of Leonidas in return for their lives. The Spartan Pentheus replies, 'We stay with our king' and it was then that the remaining Greeks were killed by the arrows 'which blot out the sun'.

The death of King Leonidas will be the most powerful part of the '300' and I wonder if Gerard Butler will say his final words as written by Frank Miller; 'My queen. My wife. My love. Be strong. Good-bye.

Blog Number 96 - Dominic West cast as Theron in Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

Dominic West has been cast as Theron in Frank Miller's '300' which is another interesting part since there wasn't any such character in the comics. Now the question to be answered: Is Theron a Spartan or is he a leader of one of the other Greek cities that fought with the Spartans at Thermopylae?

For my 100th blog, I hope to divulge the exact location of the filming of '300' in Montreal!

Blog Number 95 - Aussie David Wenham cast as Dilios in Frank Miller's '300'

2005-12-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

It has been confirmed that David Wenham from 'the land down under' has been cast as the storyteller Dilios in Frank Miller's '300'.

Blog Number 94 - Montaigne's essay about King Leonidas and the '300' Spartans

2005-12-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

Michel de Montaigne, the French Renaissance thinker wrote one of the most eloquent essays about King Leonidas and the Battle of Thermopylae.

Here is the translation by Donald M. Frame:

The most valiant are sometimes the most unfortunate. Thus there are triumphant defeats that rival victories. Nor did those four sister victories, the fairest that the sun ever set eyes on - Salamis, Plataea, Mycale, and Sicily - ever dare match all their combined glory against the glory of the annihilation of King Leonidas and his men at the pass of Thermopylae.

Blog Number 93 - The 1962 & 2006 King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2005-12-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here are images of King Leonidas as portrayed by Richard Egan in 1962's 'The 300 Spartans' and a photo of Gerard Butler who will be the new King Leonidas in Frank Miller's '300' which is tentatively scheduled to premier in 2006.

Thanks to Tamara & GeraldButler.net for the photo of Gerry Butler!

Blog Number 92 - Bust of King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2005-12-13T03:00:00.000-05:00

Of all the different statues that I have collected of King Leonidas, this one would have to be one of my favorites. It is also one of the rarest as it was acquired in Greece several years ago.

I believe this is how Gerry Butler will look with this Corinthian type helmet and breastplate. Even though Frank Miller had illustrated the Spartans without much armor, if '300' is to retain some credibility with the audience, protective devices such as the cuirass (breastplate) will have to be worn by the Greek warriors.

Blog Number 91 - Epitaph for the '300' Spartans

2005-12-12T11:15:00.000-05:00

Here is a plaque of the translated epitaph for the fallen 300 Spartiates of Thermopylae. The image is based on the fallen Greek warrior statue in Blog Number 90.

Blog Number 90 - Dying Greek warrior

2005-12-11T03:00:00.000-05:00

Whenever I see this sculpture of the dying Greek warrior, I always think of the fallen heroes of Thermopylae. This image is of the warrior from the East pediment of the temple of Aphaia at Aegina from the beginning of the 5th Century B.C.

Blog Number 89 - Herodotus - The first author of '300'

2005-12-10T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's an image of a nice set of books of Herodotus' 'Histories' which are around 50 years old. While Frank Miller's '300' is an entertaining account of the Battle of Thermopylae, I feel that one must read Book 7 of Herodotus' work since his is the original account of the battle.

By reading this version by the 'Father of History', one can develop a more accurate understanding of the reasons for the battle and its aftermath.

Blog Number 88 - Another statue of King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2005-12-09T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's another statue of King Leonidas that I have collected over the years and what I have found most interesting is that all the statues show this most famous of Spartan warriors without his armor.

Is this why Frank Miller has portrayed the Spartans without armor in the '300' comics???

Blog Number 87 - Statue of King Leonidas of the '300' Spartans

2005-12-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here's an image of one of the statues of King Leonidas of Sparta that I have collected over the years. This one was purchased in Greece and is one of my favorites.

Blog Number 86 - Frank Miller '300' signed limited edition lithograph

2005-12-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is the 'creme de la creme' of my Frank Miller '300' collection; the Dark Horse limited edition lithograph of King Leonidas of Sparta signed by both the author Frank Miller and Lynn Varley, who colored the illustrations. This is a true rarity since only 300 were individually signed and numbered by Miller and Varley.

It measures 30 inches horizontally, by 23 inches vertically and since Miller & Varley don't sell their original artwork, this lithograph has become a prized collectible. The way I look at is, if the '300' movie is a smash, which I believe it will be, these lithographs will appreciate even more in value.

Blog Number 85 - King Leonidas' personal bodyguard, the '300' Spartans

2005-12-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

When King Leonidas and his personal bodyguard marched to Thermopylae in 480 B.C., he would have 'under normal circumstances' been accompanied by the Hippeis. However, since these 300 Spartans had to have a male heir, the royal bodyguard of King Leonidas that fought and died at Thermopylae must have consisted of a combination of Hippeis and other Spartan hoplites since not all the Hippeis had produced a male heir.

Blog Number 84 - Hippeis - The '300' finest of Sparta

2005-12-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

Since all Spartan males served in the military, there was no higher honor than to be a part of the elite unit known as the Hippeis, which was the King of Sparta's personal bodyguard. This unit was comprised of the 300 best Spartiati warriors who were held in the highest esteem, which probably would be the equivalent today to the SAS of Australia, the Delta Force of the USA, etc.

According to Plutarch, when the Spartan hoplite Paedaretus wasn't chosen as a member of the Hippeis, he left cheerfully remarking that he was glad that Sparta had 300 warriors better than himself.

Blog Number 83 - Australian reenactment group of the '300' Spartans

2005-12-04T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a fantastic image of an Australian reenactment group from Melbourne, Victoria named 'The Ancient Hoplitikon of Melbourne'. This close-up photo shows what the Persian army will encounter in Frank Miller's '300'; an impenetrable phalanx of crimson-cloaked 300 Spartan warriors with their Corinthian helmets and 8 foot spears.

I have included several other images of the group headed by one of my fellow Greek-Australian mates Athanasios Porporis. I hope you like this image and the others on my other blog as it is very accurate as to the appearance of the Greek warriors that the Persians faced at Thermopylae in 480 B.C.

Since the Melbourne hoplites don't have a website, I will forwarding feedback to them from this blog and the King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans of Thermopylae blog.

Blog Number 82 - Advantages & disadvantages of the '300' Spartans' helmets

2005-12-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

While this image is not of the Battle of Thermopylae, it does show the phalanx which is the formation that would have been used by King Leonidas and the 300 Spartiates in this battle. Of particular interest is the piper, who set the cadence for the intricate manuevers that were used by the Spartans.

The advantage of the Corinthian style helmet was that it completely enclosed the head, while the disadvantage was that it resulted in the hoplite's vision and hearing being restricted. Therefore, the piercing notes of the pipe were used to instruct the Spartans into the formation and the tactics that were to be employed.

Thanks to Miyuki & Sadieanne!

Blog Number 81 - The site of the final stand of the '300' Spartans & 700 Thespians

2005-12-02T03:00:00.000-05:00

Here is an image from the Peter Connolly book, entitled 'Greece and Rome at War' which shows the site of the last stand of the Spartan and Thespian defenders.

After King Leonidas was killed, the remaining Greek defenders were able to extricate his body from the Persians after very heavy fighting. With the Spartan king's body in their possession, the remaining hoplites withdrew to this hillock where they were eventually overwhelmed by the Persian archers. This hillock was identified as the site of the last stand when hundreds of arrows were recovered during an archaeological expedition before World War II.

In Blog Number 77, the image which was included was that of the battlefield taken from the vantage point of the last stand. The site of the last stand which is pictured above was to the south of the fighting which took place in the previous two days.

Blog Number 80 - Creature Effects, Inc. to supply FX for '300'

2005-12-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

I was able to confirm yesterday that Mark Rappaport's company, Creature Effects, Inc. will be creating the special effects for the Frank Miller, Battle of Thermopylae film '300'. After looking at the pages on the aforementioned website, especially the make-up page, I was amazed at how an actor can be transformed into his/her alter ego.

The metamorphosis of Andrew Tiernan into the character Ephialtes will be the most interesting, especially when you see how he appears in Blog Number 73.