If you think modern-day dating is complex, imagine going through the ultimate test of strength and commitment by having to defeat seven evil exes to get the girl. In the neon-colored, video-game-inspired, indie-rock band landscape of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World, love is as complex and enigmatic as the battles Scott faces throughout the story. Based on the graphic novel series by Bryan Lee O'Malley, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010) combines action, comedy, and romance to create a whirlwind adventure of love and persistence that captured the hearts of readers and viewers alike. This article will dive into the intricacies of the romance portrayed in the film, exploring the themes and underlying messages that make this film a unique, captivating, and action-packed portrayal of romance.

In the heart of the film lies the love story between Scott Pilgrim and Ramona Flowers, but before the two meet, Scott Pilgrim is dating a high schooler, Knives Chau. Although this age gap between the characters raises great concern with both the audience and the characters in the film, Knives was the simplistic relationship Scott wanted after his harsh breakup with Envy Adams. At the beginning of the film, we see their mostly platonic, innocent relationship as they play video games, visit the CD store, chat, and more. In this sense, Knives represents Scott's past, his comfortable, simplistic high school life, that he has yet to let go. Scott is content with this relationship because it requires little to no effort and emotional investment on his part, which is likely due to fearing a true relationship after the "bad break up." Scott's anxiety around relationships and commitment led him to choose the safest option possible, which was a simple high school girl who allowed Scott to avoid the responsibilities of adult relationships. However, Scott still longs for a genuine relationship, which is seen when Scott immediately pulls away from Knives once he lays eyes on Ramona. This is proven by a replicated scene of the two going out on their typical outing after school, but Scott is very distant and puts no effort into the activities they are doing. Scott becoming more distant from Knives represents his realization that he has outgrown this phase of life and needs to move forward to new, mature relationships at the cost of Knives's delicate emotions and investment in Scott.

Scott distancing himself from Knives was the direct result of his meeting Ramona Flowers, the girl, quite literally, from his dreams. Although Ramona used his mind as a subspace highway to deliver Amazon packages, this dream-like state symbolizes Scott's subconscious longing for a mature relationship. As a result, when Scott sees Ramona in real life, he nearly immediately pulls away from knives and begins to pursue her, the typical journey of the "manic pixie dream girl." Scott is entranced by her mysterious presence, unique clothing style, and vibrant hair color, which leads him to search for this new, intriguing character. When comparing Scott's relationships, this new attachment represents Scott departing from his old comforts that he experienced with Knives and starting to pursue this unconventional, adventurous life. We see when Scott talks to Ramona for the first time that he is still used to a low-effort style relationship and awkwardly approaches Ramona, "I'll leave you alone forever now…". But this doesn't deter Scott as he becomes infatuated with her, stalking her at the party until she leaves and questioning everyone about who this mysterious girl is. Scott even goes as far as ordering a package from Amazon to await her delivery and ask her out on a date. This frantic searching conveys Scott's sudden and quick feelings he developed towards Ramona and his heavy desire to experience this exciting, new relationship that is unlike anything he was able to have with Knives. Little did Scott realize that pursuing Ramona was more adventurous than he initially thought, and he would have to defeat her seven evil exes in order to date her.

Scott's first battle occurs during Sex Bob-omb's concert at the Battle of the Bands with Mathew Patel, Ramona's first evil ex-boyfriend from middle school. Although Scott was warned in advance of this battle, he ignored the email sent by Mathew detailing the league and the required battles, indicating his immaturity and ignorance at the start of the film. Scott proceeds to defeat Mathew and the following evil exes, including movie star Lucas Lee, pair of twins Kyle & Ken Katayanagi, and even Envy's boyfriend and bassist Todd Ingram. As Scott advances through these obstacles, each battle represents a metaphorical challenge he must overcome on his path toward maturity and self-actualization. Each confrontation forces Scott to face his fears, insecurities, and shortcomings head-on, leading to his growth and development as a person. The battles represent the characters' internal struggles and conflicts, manifesting as dynamic and visually stunning action sequences that mirror the emotional stakes at play. Ultimately, Scott is not a good person, but as we learn more about Ramona, she also has her faults. These battles symbolize them overcoming the barriers necessary for them to grow and change together. Additionally, the battles symbolize the challenges and conflicts that often arise in relationships, highlighting the importance of communication, trust, and understanding. The symbolism of defeating inner battles is at its peak when Scott is tasked with fighting Nega Scott, the manifestation of Scott's inner demons, including his darkest fears, insecurities, and negative aspects of his personality. Although this ended with an energetic chat between the two and future brunch plans, this "boss-level" fight represents Scott's willingness to confront his past mistakes and shortcomings. Towards the end of the story, Scott becomes increasingly aware of the impact of his actions on others, especially Knives Chau. He realizes his mistakes in leading her on while simultaneously pursuing Ramona, coming to an understanding of the hurt and confusion he has caused them both. Through these battles and interactions with the characters, Scott undergoes a process of personal growth and reflection. He learns valuable lessons regarding honesty, integrity, and the importance of other's feelings, ultimately becoming a more mature and self-aware individual.

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2010) paints a vivid, neon love story with a rich tapestry of themes, characters, symbolism, and relationships that captivate audiences. Through the lens of Scott Pilgrim's entanglements with Knives Chau and Ramona Flowers and his epic battles with the seven evil exes, the film explores the complexities of love, personal growth, and self-discovery. Scott's journey from being a self-absorbed slacker to a more mature and self-aware person showcases the transformative power of love and the importance of elements such as honesty, communication, and accountability in relationships. Ultimately, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World reminds us that love is not always straightforward, but the challenges we face allow us to grow, learn, and find genuine connection and satisfaction. With its quirky characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, the film resonates with audiences as a timeless and beloved romantic comedy classic. Scott Pilgrim stands as a testament to the power of love, reminding us that true growth often lies in the messy, unpredictable journey of navigating relationships and discovering ourselves along the way.

Writer: Miranda Muller

Artist: Solymar Estrella