Stylistic Differences

When the original trailers for Sin City came out, I was optimistic. Despite the fact that Robert Rodriguez was in charge -- a man I've always considered to be more stylistically gifted than narratively adept -- I had a feeling he could make magic here. After all, he had strong source material, an attention to detail and some of the most visually striking images in the history of cinema going for him.

I was even willing to give him a pass on casting Jessica Alba.

But, as it turns out, that film as much the same as most of Rodriguez's work: visually stimulating but mentally unengaging. Aside from the story of Marv, expertly played Mickey Rourke, I didn't care a whit for the rest of the film from a crowd-pleasing standpoint. There's more to hooking an audience than simple camera tricks and flash.

So why am I so excited about 300?

Like Sin City, it's based upon a Frank Miller graphic novel, and it looks to be filmed in a similar greenscreen-only style. And the director, Zack Snyder, was also responsible for the recent Dawn of the Dead remake, which I found ultimately disappointing despite its strong cast and pedigree.

But watching the trailers, I can't help but get fired up, and from a place more primal than that which was tingling after seeing the Sin City trailers. As interested as I am in seeing the camera tricks and flash, these seem built around a story I can rally my other senses to as well.

Perhaps it's the theme of survival, or the denial of defeat. Perhaps the visuals are the perfect blend of Sin City and Lord of the Rings. Or perhaps I just admire a badass anti-hero who's justified.

Regardless, I know 300 has my engine running, and my engine runs on something deeper than style.