Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a cheery, video game-y, and self-deprecatingly amusing film and adaptation of Bryan Lee O’Malley’s graphic novel. The film follows the titular self-absorbed 22-year-old bass guitarist/nerd Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) as he traverses a new relationship. While already in a seriously frowned upon and borderline illegal relationship with a 17-year-old high schooler, Knives Chau (Ellen Wong), he meets loner Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth-Winstead) and instantly falls for her. Upon meeting and their admission of mutual feelings, Ramona reveals to Scott that he has to fight her seven exes – the League of Evil Exes – before they continue. With nothing but his wit, fists, and eventually a sword, Scott must defeat evil, break up with Knives, succeed as a band guitarist, and find himself before he finds the girl.
At first glance, Scott Pilgrim appears to be a typical fantasy love story within a gorgeously rendered video game: boy meets girl, boy likes girl, girl likes boy back, exes and past come to ruin their relationship. While this may sound dull, striking pixelated flare, dazzling color schemes, stand-out performances, and imaginatively poppy writing elevate this plot to new heights; love burns bright when found in a partner. But as the film progresses, the most valid and necessary form of love comes through: self-respect.
Initially, though his ego is immense, his band is unknown, his love life is dull, and he yearns for more. Scott develops new skills and talents through each battle, unconsciously trusting himself more in life and fighting. Some, like brutish action star Lucas Lee (Chris Evans), teach him how to utilize the environment and his tactful mind; others, like the Katayanagi twins (Keita Saitou and Shôta Saitô), push his musical abilities far beyond his self-convinced limits. He simultaneously becomes more confident and more understanding of his worth and its relationship to what he wants: “Like with jetpacks,” Scott pitifully admits to his sister when asked if he sees a future with Ramona after a grave defeat by her most evil ex. To get what he wants, Scott must fight first for himself because he doesn’t just matter; he has to matter. Ultimately, no one picks up your slack; you only have you. Scott goes through a rigamarole of violence, punchlines, and near-deaths to understand that. Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a gem of self-love through a fantastical video game lens where violence, humor, sadness, and joy all roll into one cataclysmically fun set of stand-offs.
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World
2010
dir. Edgar Wright
113 min.
Screening on 35mm Saturday, 7/20, 12:30pm & 9:30pm @ Brattle Theatre
Part of the repertory series: Celebrate 50 Years of Million Year Picnic!
