Far too cool for school

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Barry C Chung
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Barry C Chung |
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The most terrifying three words for a filmmaker are, quite possibly, "straight to DVD". This month, Scott Pilgrim vs the World was given such a fate in Hong Kong. But here, it's a case of being too cool for cinema.

The film opens with Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera) - 22, unemployed, bassist for a garage band - explaining to his band mates his "high school girlfriend" Knives Chau (Ellen Wong) - 17, idolises him. Soon, however, Scott literally falls for his dream girl, Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) - neon-haired, considerable relationship baggage.

It turns out what Scott doesn't know about her could literally kill him. In order to date her, he must battle and defeat the "League of Exes", seven of her ex-boyfriends.

The story is based on graphic novel series Scott Pilgrim by Bryan Lee O'Malley. Director, co-writer and co-producer Edgar Wright has created one of the hippest and most original films in years. It retains some of the look of the illustrated version but with added flair. Snappy text is cleverly placed on screen. At times, it serves as commentary; at others, it provides additional details about characters.

Sound effects are represented by onscreen onomatopoeia, adding texture and humour despite being so ridiculously out of place. It's a nice throwback to the 1960s Batman TV series. Add to that an indie soundtrack that simply rocks and you have an absolute cult classic on your hands.

YP rating: 2/5

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