There was talk about creating a sequel to 300 as soon as the original film began breaking box office records upon its initial release, but few believed we would ever see that project come to life. If anything, most believed a direct-to-DVD/VOD title would eventually surface, but the long-gestating sequel has defied the odds and claimed a March 2014 theatrical release that has millions anxiously awaiting its arrival. A new trailer found its way online this afternoon, and at the end of this post you can experience the latest preview for the Zack Snyder-produced effort.

Based on Frank Miller’s latest graphic novel, Xerxes, and told in the breathtaking visual style of the blockbuster original, Rise of an Empire takes the action to a fresh battlefield on the sea as Greek general Themistokles (Sullivan Stapleton) attempts to unite all of Greece by leading the charge that will change the course of the war. The film pits Themistokles against the massive invading Persian forces led by mortal-turned-god Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro), and Artemisia (Eva Green), vengeful commander of the Persian navy.

There are rumors circulating that this movie’s co-star, Callan Mulvey, is being considered as a villain choice for Batman vs. Superman. There is nothing in the trailer to hint at whether or not that’s a good decision for Warner Bros. to pursue, but the footage is exciting nonetheless. The signature style of 300 has been given new life with battles now taking place at sea and on land in the dead of night (during storms, no less). If you still love the original you will no doubt enjoy what is being teased here. If you don’t understand the hype behind the original, now may be a good time to turn away before your day become ripe with disappointment.

300: Rise of an Empire opens in 3D and 2D and IMAX on March 7, 2014. Comment below and let us know your thoughts on the latest trailer.

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James Shotwell

James Shotwell is the founder of Under The Gun Review. He loves writing about music and movies almost as much as he loves his two fat cats. He's also the co-founder of Antique Records and the Marketing Coordinator for Haulix. You should probably follow him on Twitter.

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