Movie Reviews in 50 Words: (T)

300 (2007)
Visually potent retelling of the Spartan’s famous last stand is weakest when it tries its hand at profound speechifying, but taken for what it is–a stylish, bloody popcorn flick–it becomes a worthwhile rental. Archvillain Xerxes may just be the shiniest man in ancient history who isn’t Richard Simmons.

Borrow it

Tropic Thunder (2008)
Stiller skewers movie industry excess in this flick about five prima donnas caught in a jungle warfare set turned real. Recycled jokes and a supporting cast that screams “We’re in on this!” aside, satirizing issues that really only matter to Hollywood is akin to rallying to save an inflatable whale.

Bury it