In a world in which morality has become loosely defined, one in which heroes seem to be in short supply (at least in traditional arenas such as high level sports, religion, and politics), Miller’s message is an important one for the Average Joe. Although the message itself is the most important aspect of Miller’s films, the way in which that message is portrayed is quite unique. Miller’s film-noir style “thematically showed the dark and inhumane side of human nature” particularly in the case of the Persians in 300 (Dirks). The grimness of the situation is driven home even more strongly by the style in which Miller makes his films. Shot in gloomy grey and black scenes accented in sharp red colors, 300 is a uniquely designed film as well as a perfect example of film noir. By employing the old yet still powerful techniques of film noir, Miller makes the point visually as well as prosaically, that while good may not triumph over evil completely, it can make little differences in the lives of individuals along the way (MacDonald). And thus he gives hope to his audience, to any war-weary potential do-gooder. The mantra is to “Fight in the shade.” The hope is that, however small, one will make a difference.


Dirks, Tim. "Film Noir." "The Greatest Films". 2008. 7 Mar. 2008 .

MacDonald, Heidi. Publishers Weekly. New York: Mar 7, 2005. Vol. 252, Iss. 10; pg. 40, 3 pgs.