Based on Bryan Lee O’Malley’s graphic novel series, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World adaptation director Edgar Wright perfectly captures the nerdy essence of the original material. Known for its blend of indie rock, video game aesthetics, and comic book illustrations, the movie is also a musical experience. The main character, Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera), is in a band, and this is a central point in the movie.
The plot follows Scott as he navigates young adulthood, particularly in the romance department. He meets the eccentric Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), and his world is instantly changed. To be with her, he must defeat her seven deadly exes.
Here’s a look at some of the best music moments that make the film unforgettable.
Michael Cera
Mary Elizabeth Winstead
Ellen Wong
Kieran Culkin
Alison Pill
Mark Webber
Johnny Simmons
Jason Schwartzman
Anna Kendrick
Aubrey Plaza
Satya Bhabha
Chris Evans
“I Heard Ramona Sing” - Frank Black
Since spotting Ramona, Scott has been dead set on finding her again and goes to a party as part of his search. As this song plays, he sees her leaning against a wall. This perceived coolness draws him further to her, and he starts babbling, creating a dreamlike scene.
“By Your Side” - Beachwood Sparks
After an amazing first date, Ramona invites Scott inside for some tea. We watch as their relationship blossoms while the track plays. Scott is naive to the trouble he must go through for them to get closer. We relish in the moment before the chaos bubbles over.
“Teenage Dream” - T.Rex
Scott breaks up with Knives Chau (Ellen Wong) after she confesses her love for him. The seventeen-year-old thought of him as her whole world, and the large age gap in their relationship left her in a spiral. She suddenly feels inspired and decides to become precisely like Ramona to capture his attention again.
“Threshold” - Sex Bom-Omb
Scott’s band plays "Threshold" during the music battle against Ramona’s evil exes, the Katayanagi Twins. One of his many battles with Ramona’s exes is just as suspenseful. The moment ends with him winning, getting a level up, and getting closer to winning Ramona.
“Black Sheep” - Metric
Envy Adams (Brie Larson), Scott’s ex, sings this iconic song with her band Clash at Demonhead. Trying to show Scott she’s better than Ramona and that he should be back with her, she perfectly channels her rage into this musical moment.
Check out the full Scott Pilgrim vs. The World soundtrack here.
