Scott Pilgrim vs. The World is certainly one of my favorite films of all time. It’s got a great cast, is a solid adaptation, and is directed by probably my favorite director Edgar Wright. I was pleasantly surprised this year when a new animated series was announced telling the story of Scott and his friends using the art style from the comics and featuring the original film cast. I went into this story expecting a retread of the original film but with additional cut content from the comic narrative. However, what I got was a completely new story that manages to stand on its own, while acting as a great companion piece for the movie. 

Scott Pilgrim Takes Off begins much the same as the film following the young 23-year-old bass player who falls for a girl named Ramona Flowers. After a successful first date, the pair find themselves face to face with Ramona’s seven ex-boyfriends who Scott must defeat to continue dating Ramona. However, this time, Scott is seemingly defeated as soon as the battle begins, leaving Ramona and his friends to their own devices. 

Whereas the film focuses on Scott here the side characters take center stage. The evil exes are much less evil here and each receives a dedicated episode providing further characterization and insight into their dynamics with Ramona. Scott’s friends also receive some added depth, with the highlights being the storylines including Wallace (Scott’s roommate) and his bandmate Kim who previously dated Scott. 

This series doubles down on the comedic tone of the original film along with the visual motifs from both video games and anime which inspired much of the story. The action here is fantastic and takes full advantage of the animated medium to go as crazy as possible. There are some truly exceptional sequences such as a fight that has our characters battling through various other movies jumping from scene to scene. Another stand-out is a skateboard chase sequence with dynamic camera movements and grandiose stunts galore. 

Another great aspect of the film is the soundtrack and sound design. Apart from some great remixes, there are also some decent original songs. If you’re a fighting game fan like myself, then you’ll appreciate the myriad of sound bytes and homages to classic games.

I also loved the self-aware comedic style of the show. There’s an entire subplot that has our characters performing a story within a story, poking fun at previous adaptations and the source material in a wonderfully entertaining way. Characters play with the narrative and often defy our preconceived notions of what we expect from them. At the same time, the story still preserves the most important aspect of Scott and Ramona’s relationship. Namely, each has flaws that can only be fixed through personal growth.

In terms of the weaker aspects, I don’t have much to say. There are a few moments where the voices don’t match up super well with the animation on screen but it’s nothing too detrimental. Additionally, a few of the middle episodes follow a distinct plot formula that gets repetitive. Ramona tracks down an evil ex and we learn more about their past relationship as well as current problems. Then there’s usually a fight of some kind and a conclusion that narrows down the suspects yet again while providing closure for past grievances. For me, this formula works and it makes for a fun time but I could easily see others growing bored. 

The ending is especially enticing for me as it manages to stand on its own while leaving a few threads open for potential future storylines. I would absolutely welcome a second season for this show that dives deeper into the two’s relationship following the league and maybe allowing for new original characters to appear. I would highly recommend Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, especially if you are a fan of the original story, film, or videogame. You’ll be in for an exceptionally fun time that retains the core elements of the source material while expanding into new territory all at the same time.    

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Scott Pilgrim Takes Off

0.00

8

Score

8.0/10

Pros

• Great Animation and action
• Overall style and tone
• Focus on side characters
• Music and sound design

Cons

• storytelling can be repetitive