Review: Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)

Director Edgar Wright's Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is based upon the Oni Press graphic novel Scott Pilgrim Volume 1: Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life, written by Bryan Lee O'Malley. Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) is a 22 year old canadian rocker who has found himself in love with with the wildest, most astonishing and fashionable dame in Canada. Her name is Romona Flowers (Mary Elizebeth Winstead), and she has seven evil exes. In order to date her, Scott must defeat these seven jealous foes. Can Scott gather the heart and the cojones to fight his way to Ramona? From the classic video game references, to the special effects, to the marvelousness of the enemies turning into coins upon being defeated, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is every nerd's fantasy. The film arouses the viewer in the same sense that Sin City rocked the audience with its blend of reality and comic-like characteristics. Beyond its visual domination, the film's adaptation and transition from book to screen is a success. Some may recognize Edgar Wright's other cinematic accomplishments, including films like Shaun of the Dead and Hott Fuzz. This film is less British and more hipster than its predecessors, which may be a turn-off for some, though no more than a nice transition for this viewer. Although we may have seen Cera closely portray this character in previous films, it is too early to say that its gotten old and stopped working. In this case it fits the script as well. Beyond the A-list cast, superb direction, and stunning effects, the immaculately fitting music is the glue of Pilgrim. Though this flick may be too nerdy and hip for some, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World was a sigh of relief for this viewer, scoring it 31/2 stars.