Being a film buff and a film professional, it’s not surprising to get movie-related gifts every once in a while. By now, many of my friends already know that I have a collection of movie-branded items and memorabilia, all of which I got as gifts from friends, relatives, and companies.
Of course, I treasure all items in my collection. Yet, there’s that one gift I received that tops them all.
My Favorite Movies
It was in 2006 when I saw one of my favorite films of all time, a blockbuster spectacle that made me jaw-dropped, every single moment of it. It was Zack Snyder’s “300.” It may not be as much as a masterpiece compared to the rest in my top movie list such as “Edward Scissorhands,” “2001: A Space Odyssey,” “Lord of the Rings Trilogy,” “Big Fish,” “The Shining,” “Sweeney Todd,” “E.T.,” “The Dark Knight,” “Full Metal Jacket,” “Star Wars,” and “Inception,” but it has definitely struck me to the point of making it a record-breaking movie in terms of the number of times I watched it both in the theater and the DVD.
More About 300:
‘300’ Film Review: Prepare for Glory!
As an avid fan, it felt good being one of the first to ever watch it on the big screen. I attended its premiere in Manila (Hollywood movies usually come out in the Philippines ahead to minimize the impact of piracy); and in a rare instance from the countless times I have already attended a film premiere, I found myself suddenly getting a photo of myself with Leonidas at the theater lobby — good thing I have a friend with me so no need to force a selfie. I made my film review that same night and Warner Bros. readily asked my permission to quote a part of my published review in their local ads in the Philippines a few days after.
“300: The Art of the Film”
I was elated to receive “300: The Art of the Film,” the graphic novel-looking book showcasing how “300” was made, from Warner Bros. I got it about a week after the film’s regular release. I actually received it during the premiere of another movie I attended. Though I already forgot what movie that was, I would never forget that moment I opened the gift, while still inside the theater. That time, I was with a friend who completely knew how gaga I was with “300,” and she readily snapped a photo of me upon my opening of the then wrapped up book.
It was the most special and memorable movie-related gift I have ever received to date. The book was an awesome treat for me who kept researching about how the film was made.
This may sound quite weird, but I don’t mind the description. For a couple of weeks after I got the book, I was actually sleeping with it beside me, or sometimes under my pillow, like a child’s favorite toy or storybook. I never really got tired browsing through its many pages and checking out the behind-the-scene details on how the production got through all its chroma shots — to become that “300” movie I admire.
There’s something about this book that gives me energy and delight. Even now, whenever I get hold of it, it reminds me of that cool movie that made my eyes glued on the big screen for so many times. Perhaps, the reason for all these is that, I have a very strong fascination with swords and combat weapons. In fact, I have a sword and knife collection in my room.
If I were required to bring just one book with me for good, that would definitely be “300: The Art of the Film.” Yes, I’m a hard-core “300” fan.
