Did you guys know that a sequel to Zach Snyder’s 2006 breakthrough hit, 300, hits this summer?

Yeah, I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t know, as somehow, the production of 300: Rise of An Empire happened underneath everyone’s radar.

USA Today got the exclusive first look, which is where the images in this article came from, and so far…it sounds exactly the same.

Unlike the first film, based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel, this film focuses on a group of Greek troops who fight the Persian army at sea. According to director Noam Murro (Smart People), the film features six major battles, which take place in different, distinct locations.

The cast is mostly unknowns, with the biggest name being Eva Green (Casino Royale), starring as Artemesia, the commander of the Persian navy.  In lead is actor Sullivan Stapleton as Themistokles (above), who’s biggest role to date seems to be the Cinemax series Strike Back.

Is this a lame duck sequel? We’ll know soon enough - 300: Rise of an Empire hits on August 2nd.

Source: USA Today.