Warner Bros. Pictures is set to return to ancient Greece and make war epic 300, based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel of the same name. Variety says the film will be directed by Zach Snyder and produced by Hollywood Gang Productions and Atmosphere Pictures MM.
Gerard Butler (Phantom of the Opera, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life) has been signed to star. Production will begin October 17 in Montreal.
The film tells the true story of 300 elite Spartan fighters who, led by King Leonidas (Butler), fought to the death against King Xerxes’ massive Persian army during the battle of Thermopylae in 481-480 B.C. According to lore, their valor inspired all of Greece to rise up against the invading Persians, planting the seeds of democracy.
Snyder (Dawn of the Dead) and his writing partner, Kurt Johnstad, adapted the screenplay from Miller’s graphic novel. Michael Gordon wrote a previous draft.
The studio said 300 will rely on hyper-real renderings similar to the stylized illustrations created by Miller for his book.
Source: Variety
