Scott Pilgrim vs the World (DVD)

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 how his girlfriend Knives Chau (Ellen Wong) idolises him. Soon, however, Scott falls for his dream girl, neon-haired Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), who has a lot of issues with ex-boyfriends.

It turns out what Scott doesn't know about her could actually kill him. To date her, he must battle and defeat the 'League of Exes', seven former boyfriends.

The story is based on the 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 looks of the illustrated version, but has extra flair. Snappy text is cleverly placed on screen.

The sound effects appear in words, 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 rocks and you have a cult classic on your hands.