"300" is an epic historical fiction film that was released in 2006, directed by Zack Snyder and based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller. The movie is a spectacular visualization of the events leading up to the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 B.C., where the legendary King Leonidas of Sparta led a small army of 300 men against the massive Persian army of King Xerxes.
The Battle of Thermopylae was a significant event in ancient Greek history, as it marked the beginning of the Greco-Persian Wars. The movie "300" captures the spirit of this famous battle with its stunning visual effects, dramatic fight sequences, and powerful performances by the cast. The story also highlights the bravery and valor of the Spartan soldiers, who were willing to fight to the death to defend their homeland against the invading Persian army.
In addition to its historical significance, the Battle of Thermopylae has been credited with inspiring all of Greece to unite against the Persians, ultimately leading to the establishment of the world's first democracy. The movie "300" also touches on this theme, emphasizing the importance of freedom and self-determination. Overall, "300" is a thrilling and visually stunning portrayal of one of the most famous battles in ancient history, and a testament to the bravery and resilience of the Spartan soldiers who fought in it.
Main Cast of 300
Brian Keith
Milton Hardcastle
In the movie '300', Brian Keith delivers a poignant performance as Milton Hardcastle, a character not central to the film's narrative but significant in the brief moments he occupies the screen. As the Spartan warrior Dilios narrates the story of the Battle of Thermopylae, Hardcastle is introduced as one of the veterans in King Leonidas' band of 300. Keith brings a grizzled gravitas to the role, portraying Hardcastle with a weathered face that tells of many battles fought and the wisdom of age. His performance is a blend of stoicism and underlying warmth, as he stands shoulder to shoulder with his fellow Spartans, ready to face the overwhelming Persian army. Despite limited dialogue, Keith's Hardcastle exudes a sense of unyielding resolve and camaraderie that is essential to the Spartan ethos. His presence on the battlefield is commanding, and when he falls, it is with the honor and dignity that defines the Spartan way of life, contributing to the film's portrayal of the heroic last stand of the 300.
Gerard Butler
King Leonidas
Gerard Butler's portrayal of King Leonidas in the film "300" is a tour de force of raw intensity and embodied strength, capturing the essence of the legendary Spartan warrior-king with a performances that is as much about physical prowess as it is about the depth of character. His Leonidas is a study in leadership and defiance, as he rallies his 300 Spartans against the overwhelming force of the Persian army at the Battle of Thermopylae. Butler's performance is marked by a commanding presence, ferocious battle cries, and a palpable sense of honor that resonates throughout the film. His ability to convey the strategic acumen and unwavering resolve of Leonidas is matched by the emotional gravity he brings to the king's personal sacrifices, creating a multi-dimensional character that transcends the boundaries of the action genre. With every defiant stance and impassioned speech, Butler’s Leonidas becomes an iconic figure of cinematic heroism, leaving an indelible mark on the audience and the landscape of modern epic films.
Lena Headey
Gorgo
Lena Headey delivered a commanding and nuanced performance as Queen Gorgo in the epic historical film '300'. Her portrayal of the Spartan queen showcased a blend of strength and intelligence, bringing depth to a character that could have easily been overshadowed by the film's intense battle scenes. Headey's Gorgo is no mere accessory to the male-dominated narrative; she is a formidable presence, matching the ferocity of her on-screen husband, King Leonidas, with her own brand of political savvy and fierce determination. Her performance is marked by a regal bearing and a sharp wit, effectively navigating the treacherous political landscape of Sparta with a calculated poise. Headey's portrayal reaches its zenith in her impassioned speeches, where her ability to convey deep emotion and unwavering resolve solidifies Gorgo's status as a symbol of empowerment and resilience. Lena Headey's portrayal is a testament to her range as an actress and anchors the human element of the film amidst its stylized violence and grandiose spectacle.
Joe Santos
Frank Harper
In the visually stunning film "300," Joe Santos delivers a compelling performance as the Athenian politician and advisor, Theron. Although he does not portray a character named Frank Harper in the movie, Santos brings a nuanced gravitas to the role of Theron, who serves as a political counterpoint to King Leonidas of Sparta. His performance is a blend of subtlety and strength, effectively conveying the complex machinations and duplicity of Athenian politics. Santos's Theron is both calculating and charismatic, skillfully navigating the treacherous waters of alliances and betrayals that underpin the narrative. His interactions with the Spartan king, played by Gerard Butler, are laden with tension and subtext, highlighting the ideological divide between the societies they represent. Santos's portrayal adds a layer of political intrigue to the action-packed spectacle, providing a memorable performance that complements the film's exploration of honor, freedom, and the cost of war.
Dominic West
Theron
Dominic West's portrayal of the Theron in the movie "300" is a compelling embodiment of the Spartan warrior ethos, characterized by unwavering strength and a relentless will to fight. As Theron, a political adversary to King Leonidas, West brings to life a character that is both formidable and complex, imbuing him with a sense of gravitas and duplicity. His performance is marked by a commanding screen presence, as he navigates the treacherous politics of Sparta with a mix of cunning and brute force. West's Theron is not merely a villain; he is a man driven by ambition, torn between his personal agenda and the welfare of his city-state, which he believes is best served by allying with the Persian invaders. With every calculated decision and fierce combat scene, West convincingly captures the essence of a warrior whose allegiance is as much a threat to his enemies as it is a double-edged sword to his own people. His nuanced portrayal adds depth to the narrative, making Theron a memorable antagonist whose actions reverberate throughout the film's dramatic arc.
John Hancock
Michael Delaney
In the 2007 epic war film "300," John Hancock delivers a compelling performance as the seasoned Spartan warrior, Michael Delaney. Although not the central character, Hancock's portrayal of Delaney is memorable for his stoic presence and unwavering loyalty to King Leonidas, played by Gerard Butler. Hancock brings a gritty realism to the role, embodying the fierce determination and battle-hardened spirit of a Spartan soldier. His character serves as a testament to the camaraderie and brotherhood that is a cornerstone of Spartan culture, as he stands shoulder to shoulder with his fellow warriors in the face of overwhelming odds during the historic Battle of Thermopylae. Hancock's performance is highlighted by his ability to convey the deep-seated honor and commitment of a soldier who is willing to lay down his life for his king and country, contributing to the film's powerful and stylized depiction of this legendary last stand.
David Wenham
Dilios
David Wenham delivers a commanding performance as Dilios in the visually stunning film "300," directed by Zack Snyder. As the loyal Spartan warrior and narrator of the tale, Wenham brings a robust and fervent presence to the screen, embodying the unwavering spirit of the ancient Spartans. His portrayal of Dilios is characterized by a gritty conviction and a palpable sense of honor, which resonate throughout his powerful narration and fierce combat scenes. Wenham's ability to convey both the raw intensity and nuanced emotional depth of a soldier who idolizes King Leonidas allows the audience to connect with the Spartan cause on a visceral level. His performance is a cornerstone of the film's larger-than-life narrative, providing a compelling human element amidst the epic battles and grandiose spectacle. Wenham's Dilios serves as the passionate voice of the Spartan's legendary last stand at Thermopylae, inspiring both his fellow warriors and the audience with his unyielding bravery and reverence for the heroic code of his people.
Mary Jackson
Sarah Wicks
Mary Jackson delivered a poignant and commanding performance as Sarah Wicks in the 2006 epic war film '300,' directed by Zack Snyder. As the Spartan Queen, Jackson brought a regal presence and emotional depth to the role, portraying Sarah Wicks as a woman of strength and wisdom who supports her husband, King Leonidas, while also navigating the treacherous political landscape of Sparta. Her scenes are few, but Jackson's performance is memorable; she embodies the fierce spirit of a Spartan with a composed demeanor, offering a counterpoint to the raw aggression of the battlefield. Her interactions with Gerard Butler's Leonidas are particularly notable, as they convey a relationship built on mutual respect and shared duty to their people. Jackson's portrayal adds a layer of humanity to the stylized violence of '300,' reminding the audience of the personal and political stakes behind the legendary Battle of Thermopylae.
Vincent Regan
Captain
Vincent Regan's portrayal of the loyal and valiant Captain in the film "300" is a compelling embodiment of Spartan valor and discipline. His performance is marked by a stoic gravitas and a palpable sense of duty, as he stands shoulder to shoulder with King Leonidas, played by Gerard Butler. Regan brings a depth of emotion to the role, particularly in his interactions with the Spartan king, revealing a bond of brotherhood and mutual respect forged in the fires of combat. His Captain is not just a warrior, but a leader among the legendary 300, showcasing a tactical mind and a fierce determination to protect his men and his homeland. Regan's physicality and commanding presence on the battlefield are matched by his ability to convey the weight of impending doom, as he faces the overwhelming forces of Xerxes with unwavering resolve. His performance is a testament to the Spartan ethos of strength and sacrifice, contributing significantly to the film's portrayal of heroism against insurmountable odds.
Michael Fassbender
Stelios
Michael Fassbender's portrayal of Stelios in the epic war film "300" is a standout performance that embodies the fierce spirit of the Spartan warrior. With a commanding screen presence, Fassbender brings a palpable intensity and an almost balletic grace to the fight scenes, which are made all the more iconic by his character's memorable line, "Then we will fight in the shade." His Stelios is not just a formidable fighter, but also a source of moral support and camaraderie within the ranks, showcasing Fassbender's ability to convey depth beyond the character's physical prowess. The actor's commitment to embodying the ferocity and valor of Stelios, combined with his nuanced depiction of the character's loyalty and brotherhood, solidifies his performance as one of the film's most compelling elements, contributing significantly to the lasting impact of "300" on popular culture.
Tom Wisdom
Astinos
Andrew Pleavin
Daxos
Andrew Tiernan
Ephialtes
Rodrigo Santoro
Xerxes
Giovani Cimmino
Pleistarchos
Stephen McHattie
Loyalist
Greg Kramer
Ephor #1
Alex Ivanovici
Ephor #2
Kelly Craig
Oracle Girl
Eli Snyder
Leonidas @ 7/8 yrs
Tyler Neitzel
Leonidas @ 15 yrs
Tim Connolly
Leonidas' Father
Marie-Julie Rivest
Leonidas' Mother
Peter Mensah
Messenger
Arthur Holden
Partisan
Michael Sinelnikoff
Elder Councilman
John Dunn-Hill
Councilman
Neil Napier
Spartan with Stick
Dylan Smith
Sentry #1
Maurizio Terrazzano
Sentry #2
Kwasi Songui
Persian
Alexandra Beaton
Burned Village Child
Tom Rack
Ephor #3
David Francis
Ephor #4
James Bradford
Ephor #5
Andrew Shaver
Free Greek-Potter
Robin Wilcock
Free Greek-Sculptor
Kent McQuaid
Free Greek-Blacksmith
Marcel Jeannin
Free Greek-Baker
Jeremy Thibodeau
Spartan Boy
Tyrone Benskin
Persian Emissary
Robert Maillet
Uber Immortal (Giant)
Patrick Sabongui
Persian General
Charles Papasoff
Blacksmith
Isabelle Champeau
Mother at Market
David Schaap
Potter
Jean Michel Paré
Other Council Guard
Stewart Myiow
Persian General
Elisabeth Etienne
Dancer
Geneviève Guilbault
Slave Girl
Sebastian St. Germain
Fighting Boy (12 years old)
Dennis St John
Spartan Baby Inspector
Robert Paradis
Spartan General
Loucas Minchillo
Spartan Baby A
Nicholas Minchillo
Spartan Baby B
Jere Gillis
Spartan General #2
Dave Lapommeray
Persian General Slaughtered
Vervi Mauricio
Armless Concubine
Veronique-Natale Szalankiewicz
Daughter at Market (3/5 years old)
Maéva Nadon
Girl at Market
David Thibodeau
Boy #1 at Market
Ariadne Bourbonnière
Kissing Concubine
Isabelle Fournel
Kissing Concubine
Sandrine Merette-Attiow
Contortionist
Crew of 300
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