Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is brilliant. Hilarious. Pure spectacle. Edgar Wright has crafted a film that can best be described as an ice cream sundae. It has all your favorite flavors. It has everything that any movie nerd or comic book nerd will bask in.
Despite that, it’s also a film that many non-comic book fans can enjoy just as much. It has a lot of heart similar to Wright’s previous work. Even with all the visual ecstasy put on-screen, Wright never loses sight of the film’s heart. You care for Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera). You care for Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead). You also care just as much for Knives (Ellen Wong). By the end you just all hope they’re happy and get what they and deserve.
The funny thing about that is, when the film starts out Scott couldn’t act more childish. He’s selfish and irresponsible. He leads on Knives, while also counting Ramona. Pilgrim is a weakling and has nearly no confidence, and yet you like him. Cera is wildly known for his awkward humor, and while some of that is still present, he shows a different side here similar to the way he did in (the very good) Youth in Revolt. To those who complain Cera is one-note, this turn of excellence will most likely change your mind on that.
One of the many great decisions made on Wright’s part is that he doesn’t excuse Scott’s behavior. Nearly every character in the film calls him out, and they’re all right. By the end of the film, it’s nice to see a protagonist own up to his own mistakes and his problems rather than acting completely oblivious and leaving the situation without learning a lesson from his wrongdoings. Scott does get the victory,of course, at the end, but it all feels earned. Pilgrim deserves to succeed.
(MASSIVE Spoiler Warning) Sadly, the ending is also where the main issues lies. It feels rushed and who Scott picks doesn’t exactly feel totally natural. It all seems to build up to him being with Knives, rather than Ramona. They seem perfect for each other, and this is even pointed out by Ramona herself. It’s not entirely bothersome, but it’s the only notable hiccup in the film. (Spoiler Over)
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World has the biggest budget Wright has ever been able to play with. While it’s not monumental like most summer blockbusters, it’s a hefty budget and it certainly shows on-screen. The best way to describe Wright’s style here is as anime crossed with a comic book meeting real life. It’s glorious to marvel at. Nearly every frame comes off like a piece of pop art. And when it comes to the action, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Every action beat is distinct and original.
“Original” is honestly the best way to describe Scott Pilgrim. We hardly ever come by films that we can say that about and it’s entirely refreshing. It starts running right from the start and never lets you go. This is an experience of a film that is beautiful, terrific, and…totally awesome.