Movies:
It seems as though something can still be positive even if it is contained within a largely negative medium (Hollywood). In fact, we all apparently agree that this is the case with metal music: healthy, traditional ideas and classical structures that use modern instruments as a vehicle for expression. The same can essentially be said for movies. Even though I contend that 99% of movies produced in Hollywood are complete garbage, there still remains that rouge 1% that manages to be both aesthetically pleasing as well as ideologically compelling.
Now, this all rests on the assumption that something can be "better" simply by way of comparison, but I think there is some inherent value to be found in "trolling the media," or placing strong, healthy values in front of modern people who typically go to the movies for some mindless entertainment that reinforces unrealistic, degenerate values (ex. individualism).
In this light, I found "300" to be extremely moving. Here we find a movie that is by no means "historically accurate," but like ancient myths and romantic literature alike, it elucidates timeless values. It was unbelievably refreshing to see a movie that so unapologetically promoted strength (both mental and physical), hierarchy, discipline, elitism, loyalty, honor, courage, and self-sacrifice. It demonstrated the importance of eugenics and how quality is superior to quantity.
Also, "300" made an interesting analysis of the fundamental nature of egalitarianism: when the deformity named Ephialtes learns from Leonidas that he cannot serve in the Spartan army, he throws a fit and betrays his countrymen (leading the Persians to the hidden goat path), ushering in their defeat. I was amazed at how much this reminded me of Nietzsche's "Tarantula" argument, that egalitarianism stems from a type of Crowd Revenge committed by the inferior individuals who, refusing to accept their position in life, selfishly bring everyone who is superior down to their level.
Something that Xerxes said to Ephialtes struck me as well:
"You will find that I am kind. For unlike the cruel Leonidas, who demanded that you stand, I require only that you kneel." (Modern Society 101?)
Anyway, I can clearly see why so many reviews marked 300 as "racist, homophobic, fascist, xenophobic" etc. Any movie that dares to uphold traditional values with sincerity to an audience that has been indoctrinated by modern thinking is sure to get a similar response.
Just some food for thought.
Here is the website for the organization that was responsible for the infamous "Spartan workout." I found their ideas quite interesting:
http://www.gymjones.com/