"Scott Pilgrim vs. The World" Review

“Scott Pilgrim vs. The World,” based off a comic book series by Bryan Lee O’Malley, is the most visually unique film of the year. While most comic book films are filtered through a derivative, action-movie aesthetic, director Edgar Wright gives the “Scott Pilgrim” a distinct look. From it use of comic book onomatopoeia (Pow! Ka-Bam!) to its retro video game visuals, the movie exists within its own universe. At times, it even feels like a visual representation of 21st century youth culture. And while the film can sometimes be garish, it’s always fun to watch.

The film follows Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera), a twenty-something slacker, as he tries to win the heart of his dream girl Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). But there’s a catch. In order for Scott to win Ramona’s heart, he must defeat all of Ramona’s seven evil exes.

While the film contains some great performances (particularly from Kieran Culkin, Scott’s snarky roommate), they are easily overshadowed by Wright’s direction. While the script contains some snappy dialogue and sharp one-liners, Wright also manages to get laughs through his sharp visual wit. With oodles of pop culture references and sight gags, Wright crams jokes into every frame. In fact, the film contains so much visual humor that it’s doubtful one could catch it all on a single viewing.

While the film’s humor always lands, its character work leaves a little to be desired. The relationship between Scott and Ramona is sweet, but the film fails to say anything truly meaningful about their relationship until its final few scenes. One wishes that Wright and fellow screenwriter Michael Bacall would have nixed a few of the evil exes to allow more room for the film’s main relationship.

But depth is obviously not the main goal here. “Scott Pilgrim vs. The World” shines due to its crazy, bonkers, off-the-wall humor, as well as Wright’s sharp direction.

Sure, it’s flawed.

But it’s also awesome. ; )

B+