Good movie, but not as good as the review. I know the history, and it's surprisingly true to the facts plot-wise while being completely unbelievable character-wise.
I think the movie held up because of the stunning artistic direction and choreography... and the brilliant performance by Lena Headey as the powerful but troubled Queen Gorgo served as a good counterpoint to the single-minded Gerard Butler as King Leonidas.
Just to give an idea of the visuals:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416449/
