The film follows the Greek general Themistocles (played by Sullivan Stapleton), who attempts to unite the Greek city-states to resist the invading Persian forces led by the mortal-turned-god Xerxes (played by Rodrigo Santoro) and his naval commander Artemisia (played by Eva Green).
The narrative is structured around the Battle of Artemisium and the naval conflict between the Greeks and Persians. Themistocles faces challenges not only from the overwhelming Persian fleet but also from internal political strife among the Greek city-states.
Throughout the film, there are flashbacks to events preceding and during the Battle of Marathon, highlighting the origins of the conflict between Greece and Persia. It also provides insight into the motivations of Xerxes and Artemisia.
The climax of the film takes place in the naval Battle of Salamis, where Themistocles leads the Greek forces in a strategic confrontation against Artemisia and the Persian fleet. The intense battle sequences involve innovative naval tactics and showcase the skill and determination of the Greek warriors.
In the resolution, Themistocles manages to outmaneuver the Persians, and the film concludes with a sense of victory for the Greeks. However, it also sets the stage for the continuation of the conflict, as Xerxes remains a formidable force.
“300: Rise of an Empire” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its visual style and action sequences but criticism for its narrative complexity and perceived lack of the original film’s impact. The movie aimed to expand the universe established in “300” and explore the broader historical context of the Greco-Persian Wars.