DVD Review: 300 (Limited Collectors Edition)

The new 300 Limited Collector’s Edition, available only while supplies last, will include all the spectacular special features previously available on the Two Disc Special Edition but now adds a bonus disc containing a new documentary To The Hot Gates: A Legend Retold, a comprehensive and dynamic description of the process filmmakers followed to take an ancient legend through a graphic novel and finally realizing it as a feature film. In addition there is a bonus Digital Copy of the film, a 52-page hardcover art book with a personal message from Snyder, a lucite display with motion film image and six collectible photo cards.

Review:
You probably won’t be looking to pick up this version of 300 unless you’re already a huge fan of the film. This latest release is a limited edition that is only available while supplies last. It includes a brand new documentary about the legend of 300 as filtered through history, a graphic novel and film, a digital copy of the theatrical version, a 52-page hardcover art book with a personal message from director Zack Snyder, a lucite display with a motion film clip, 6 collectible photo cards, and all the contents that you get on the 2-disc special edition release of the film.

Is it worth the extra money? If you’re a fan of the film, then yes, definitely pick it up. Also, if you’re a fan of film in general, you’ll appreciate all the extras included in this, especially the art book which features stunning stills from the film. The documentary really doesn’t dig up too much that history buffs and fans of the film weren’t already aware of, but it’s still an entertaining viewing. The lucite display makes for a decent little paper weight for your desk if you’re into the desk swag, and the collectible cards… well they’re just cool looking.

The film itself is about the legend of the 300 Spartans and King Leonidas who fought the Persians in 480 B.C. 300 is definitely an epic film, but all the stylizing (which was absolutely beautiful) caused for a bit too much hype. My expectations were a little too high when I saw it the first time in the theaters and I was a little let down, similar as to how I felt with the release of Troy. However, 300 is light years better than the film Warner Brothers released in the spring this year, 10,000 B.C., which was billed essentially as this year’s 300. I can still appreciate 300 for what it offers, which is absolutely beautiful cinematography. While the plot itself lacks strength and leaves the viewer feeling like something was missing, it will still leave you with a sense of awe in regard to how amazing the film actually looked. I think this collection would be 300 times better if it included the Blu-ray version of the film instead, but who knows, perhaps Warner Brothers already has a future release in mind for that.

Own it on DVD November 18, 2008!

Review by Emma Loggins

Grade: B
Official site: http://www.300ondvd.com/
Buy on Amazon: 300 (Limited Collectors Edition)