If you're anything like me, you're excited for the release of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World. You've read Bryan Lee O'Malley's excellent graphic novels on which the movie is based, played the fantastic old-school style video game, and listened to the soundtrack featuring the likes of Beck and Metric. But to the uninitiated, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World might look like yet another comic book punch-'em-up. You might think, the guy from Superbad is trying to be an action star? Why do I want to see that? What sets the movie apart from every other summer blockbuster?

Here's the first thing you should know: Scott Pilgrim is really about relationships. Specifically, the baggage we all bring to new relationships. In this case, the baggage is literal: Scott must defeat his girlfriend Ramona Flowers' seven evil exes in order to live happily ever after. Who hasn't longed to take down our significant others' exes with a swift roundhouse kick?

Oh, sure, the graphic novels are filled with references to video games, comic books, Japanese animation, and indie rock. But they're also really funny, and occasionally moving. For those of you out of our twenties, the books will remind you of the friends and relationships you had right out of college, during that time when you're figuring out what to do with the rest of your life. If you're currently in your early twenties, the Scott Pilgrim series will remind you of a night out with your pals.

So if you're wary about the geeky elements of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, fear not-- the movie is a romantic comedy through and through. Only one with far more ninja battles than your average Jennifer Aniston flick. 

See you at the movies! I expect to see plenty of nerds rumbling with the jocks in line to see The Expendables this weekend.