Based off the graphic novel “Xerxes,” “300: Rise of an Empire,” directed by Noam Murro,  is based before, during and after the plot of “300,” the story of 300 Spartans battling an unwinnable battle against the Persian Empire. However, it takes on a different perspective of the war, mainly focusing on the naval battles.

The movie stars both Sullivan Stapleton as the Athenian general Themistocles and Eva Green as Artemesia, a defected greek who swears to take vengeance on Greece for its crimes against her and her family. Green steals the show in “Rise of an Empire” with her graceful style and true acting. She portrays her character extremely well, becoming a beautiful, stealthy and evil character who breaks the heart of any man she touches.

“300: Rise of an Empire” returns with the same incredible action sequences that were well defined in the first movie. The shots have amazing special effects, creating  very realistic battle scenes featuring epic explosions, making every battle  entertaining to watch.

Although the movie’s action is entertaining, the plot is lacking in many ways. Throughout the movie there is very little character development, which leads to uninteresting portions of the movie. The plot also lacks depth and details, so there is no real explanation for what occurs during the movie. Also, there are various plot holes throughout the film.

Overall this movie fails to amuse and does not seem well thought out. However, while the acting isn’t the best, Eva Green plays her part like no one else, surpassing everyone in the movie with her skill.