'300: Rise of an Empire' Trailer VIDEO: Highly-Anticipated Sequel Features Shirtless Greeks, Vengeful Persians, Gruesome Bloodshed

The highly-antcipated sequel to "300" is set to hit theaters March 7, 2014. The first official trailer for "300: Rise of an Empire" premiered on Wednesday evening (June 12)... and fans were definitely not disappointed. The 2 minute 30 second clip features a slew of toned, shirtless Greeks (including Gerard Butler reprising his role as King of Sparta), violent, vengeful Persians, and some awesomely gruesome bloodshed. Can't wait to see what the full-length flm has in store for viewers!

A short IMBd description of "300: Rise of an Empire" states:

The Greek general Themistocles battles an invading army of Persians under the mortal-turned-god, Xerxes. 

The action film takes place before, after, and during the first 2006 "300" movie.

Along with Butler, Lena Headey and Rodrigo Santoro reprise their roles from the original as Queen of Sparta and King Xerxes. Eva Green, Sullivan Stapleton, Yigal Naor, and Jack O'Connell also star.

Check out the FIRST official trailer here:

The clip was just posted less than 24 hours ago and has already garnered thousands of views on Youtube. Here's what some fans are saying...

1234kalmar: "Despite the 'WTF is history?' attitude, The visual effects are insanely good."

NanasAndCustard: "The first film was s#it. I can't see this being any better."

ikas1992: "Cersei Lannister high as f#ck, leading greek armies and s#it."

riceball23: "Meh. I'll just wait until all the best action scenes are on youtube."

Looks like mixed reviews so far... Are readers excited for the new "300" film?