Movie Review: “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World”

Based on a series of graphic novels by Bryan Lee O’Malley, the movie “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” is about love, trouble, self-discovery and music. The overdramatic action scenes and unexplained stunts are perfect elements in the film that draw out each character’s personality and, despite a few sexual references that made me roll my eyes, this movie was a blast to experience.

I say experience because Scott Pilgrim is more interactive than the U-Scans at Wal-Mart. Every scene is colorful and fun. Expression can be found far beyond the mannerisms of the actors; the environment itself comes alive. From beginning to end, you feel like a kid again.

This movie could easily be renamed “Homage to the Video Game Generation.” Reminiscent of the Mario Brothers of old, the bad guys turn into coins when they die. Combos build during rapid action. And at the delivery of a final blow, opponents are KO-ed. Even though not all of us are hardcore gamers, we can still appreciate the flavor that the Mario Bros, Legend of Zelda, and Pac-Man have added to our culture.

Scott Pilgrim pinpoints gaming references and comic book styles and brings them to life through film. Because of the general playfulness of the film, this movie had the audience smiling from start to finish.