Details
I hope soon to write a long piece (perhaps put it in my "essays" column) on the film 300, and how it follows many of the traditions of fine art making.
It is an important film, both as a story (history) and as cinematographical art.
In the meantime, I should add that Leonidas’ St. Sebastian-like pose at the end is actually combined with his outstretched arms in the form of a crucified Christ.
There are lots of small details like this which convinces me that this film does consciously pick up on many art, historical and cultural references.
Very unusual, and very brave, for a film which also aimed at being a blockbuster.
I think it won on all those counts.