The 300 Spartans -

Directed by Rudolph Maté, this "sword and sandal" epic is praised for its attempt at historical groundedness compared to its modern successors.

: Beyond its own merits, its greatest impact was inspiring a young Frank Miller , who later created the 300 graphic novel. Cinematic Evolution: 1962 vs. 2006 The 300 Spartans

: It stays relatively faithful to Herodotus' accounts , depicting the political maneuvering between the Spartans and Athenians (represented by Themistocles ) and the ultimate betrayal by Ephialtes. Directed by Rudolph Maté, this "sword and sandal"