“300” Makes U.S. Cinema History

March 12, 2007

Warner Bros epic blockbuster movie “300” has wowed cinema-goers in the United States with the movie grossing a staggering US $70 million dollars (NZ $95 million) on its opening weekend making it the highest March box office opening in US cinema history.

“300” is a ferocious retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Co-written and directed by Zack Snyder (“Dawn of the Dead”), the film combines live action with virtual backgrounds creating a cutting edge visual style that has had audiences and critics in awe.

Inspired by the work of graphic novelist Frank Miller, industry commentators consider “300” a huge victory for Warner Bros. and its four production partners. “Sin City”, another Frank Miller inspired work with Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, had an impressive US$29 million opening, however “300”s debut is considered historic. The film’s box office result is all the more remarkable due to its R-rated certificate making it the third biggest opening weekend ever in this category, only behind the Passion of the Christ (US $83 million) and The Matrix Reloaded (US$91 million).

Lisa Hubbard, General Manager of Roadshow Film Distributors, is confident “300” will achieve similar results in New Zealand when it opens locally on April 5. “We knew we had a movie that was truly ground breaking and extraordinary, and the incredible US results show just how ready audiences are to embrace innovative and exciting new films. As the local distributor of such successful franchises as “The Matrix” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, it is absolutely fantastic to have another unique property that is sure to excite the New Zealand public.”

An epic adventure about passion, courage, freedom and sacrifice embodied by the Spartan warriors who fought one of the greatest battles in history, “300” stars Gerard Butler (“Phantom of the Opera”) Lena Headey (“The Brothers Grimm), Australian actor David Wenham (“The Lord of the Rings”) and Dominic West (“The Forgotten”).

“300” opens nationwide at New Zealand cinemas on April 5, 2007

www.300themovie.com

ENDS

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