A new documentary starring Michael Scott uses ancient sources, especially Herodotus, and contemporary historians to separate cinematic storytelling from historical fact. The film notes that its perspective is largely Greek and Western because Herodotus is the primary source and there is no direct Achaemenid account of the battle. It critiques well‑known exaggerations, such as the claim of only 300 Spartans or millions of Persian troops, while acknowledging that it may still reflect Western historiography in its portrayal of motives and characters.