Starring the same cast, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off serves as a refreshing retelling of the 2010 Scott Pilgrim vs The World, filled with unexpected plot twists and the same humour and charm you would expect. Viewers who hoped for an anime adaption of the same story may be left disappointed, but many fans enjoy the new storyline which adds layers of development to the beloved characters. The series also has a new look, designed by Tokyo anime studio ‘Science Saru’, which feels more similar to the original manga: bold lines and big, expressive eyes.
When faced with creating an eight-episode adaption of the film, writers Bryan Lee O’Malley and Ben David Grabinski chose to create an entirely new idea for the series, as opposed to adapting more of the original source material. The structure feels more suited to episode television, with a slight change of pace compared to the film, building up to a big, romantic finale. The pop culture references and the video game-esque structure helped to make the film a cult classic, and these lingered in the dialogue of the series in a slightly different way.
13 years later, the original story has been completely swapped around – the series is not supposed to be a reboot or a sequel, but instead begins almost identically to the film before a sharp change at the end of the first episode. Scott Pilgrim takes off to give centre stage to Ramona Flowers, who is no longer just a prize to be won. Instead, our leading lady becomes more proactive, essentially being the lead character for a few episodes.
By taking out Scott, the story gets to focus on some more interesting characters, like Ramona, Wallace, and Young Neil. Wallace especially is a highlight for me: Kieran Culkin is easily the best performer in terms of acting within the comedic rhythms of animation. He fills his extra screen time with minor put-downs of both his friends and foes in such a way that is thoroughly enjoyable for the viewer. Otherwise, it is a lot easier to be invested in each of the Evil Exes now they exist with a purpose other than trying to beat up their ex-girlfriend’s new love interest; they all have multiple layers of personality and are much more thoroughly explored. They are given opportunities for redemption and growth, instead of being quickly vanquished like in the original film. But, viewers can still expect the big fight scenes that went down so well in the movie.
In summary, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off offers the same level of style and comic charm you would expect, with a bit of extra whimsy and visual fireworks. The show feels a little more grown-up – but not at the expense of its humour and quick wit. Instead, the series shows better depictions of toxic relationship behaviours and gives each character their own personal growth arc. Think indie-rock characters mixed with witty dialogue and anime-inspired fights, but in a way that works for a fresh remake.
4/5
