Netflix has released a new anime series based on the popular Scott Pilgrim graphic novels by Bryan Lee O’Malley. The series, titled Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, is not a direct adaptation of the original comics, but rather a fresh and creative spin on the story that explores the consequences of Scott’s defeat at the hands of Ramona’s first evil ex.
The Series Reunites the Original Film Cast
One of the most remarkable features of the series is that it brings back the entire main cast from the 2010 live-action film Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, directed by Edgar Wright. The film, which was a critical success but a box office flop, has since gained a cult following and is widely regarded as one of the best comic book adaptations of all time.
The series features the voices of Michael Cera as Scott Pilgrim, Mary Elizabeth Winstead as Ramona Flowers, Kieran Culkin as Wallace Wells, Anna Kendrick as Stacey Pilgrim, Brie Larson as Envy Adams, Alison Pill as Kim Pine, Aubrey Plaza as Julie Powers, Johnny Simmons as Young Neil, Mark Webber as Stephen Stills, Ellen Wong as Knives Chau, and Satya Bhabha, Chris Evans, Brandon Routh, Jason Schwartzman and Mae Whitman as the evil exes. The series also includes guest stars such as Finn Wolfhard, Bowen Yang and Simon Pegg.
According to O’Malley, who created, wrote and executive produced the series along with BenDavid Grabinski, the cast members are like family to him and he was thrilled to have them reprise their roles. Wright, who also served as an executive producer, said that he was happy to be able to reach out to everyone with the news that they had finally come up with a way to continue the adventure.
The Series Takes a Different Approach to the Story
The series, which consists of eight episodes, is not a faithful adaptation of the original comics, but rather an alternate retelling that diverges from the source material in a major way. In the series, Scott Pilgrim actually loses his battle against Matthew Patel, Ramona’s first evil ex, and is seemingly killed. As a result, everyone’s lives change drastically, including those of Ramona’s other evil exes, who are no longer bound by the rules of the League of Evil Exes. Ramona, however, learns that Scott may still be alive and decides to investigate his disappearance.
O’Malley said that he had an idea for the series that was way more adventurous than just a straight adaptation of the original books. He said that he wanted to explore the characters and the world in a new way, and to challenge the expectations of the fans. Grabinski, who developed the series with O’Malley, said that he was a huge fan of the comics and the film, and that he wanted to honor them while also creating something original and exciting.
The Series is a Collaboration Between American and Japanese Studios
The series is a co-production between Marc Platt Productions, Not Penny’s Boat, Complete Fiction, Science SARU and Universal Content Productions. The animation was done by Science SARU, a Japanese studio founded by acclaimed directors Masaaki Yuasa and Eunyoung Choi. The studio is known for its distinctive and experimental style, and has produced works such as Devilman Crybaby, Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! and Japan Sinks: 2020.
The series was directed by Abel Góngora, who previously worked with Yuasa on Ride Your Wave and Super Shiro. The music was composed by Joseph Trapanese, who also scored the film, and Anamanaguchi, who provided the original soundtrack for the video game adaptation of Scott Pilgrim. The opening theme song is “Bloom” by Necry Talkie, a Japanese rock band.
The series was released on Netflix on November 17, 2023, and has received positive reviews from critics and fans alike. The series has been praised for its animation, humor, action, and emotional depth, as well as for its respectful and innovative approach to the source material.
