In the debate of video games as art, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World settles the dispute while breaking fresh new ground in the comic book movie and rom-com sub genres.

Opening with the distinct Universal logo and music morphed into a Nintendo theme song is a hint and a half to what this film represents: the aesthetic of the gamer generation weaned on consoles, indie rock music, and the films of George Lucas and Michel Gondry.

It is a tough mission statement to live up to, but one which director/co-writer Edgar Wright has taken to with aplomb, in the process creating a film akin to a video game mixed with a comic book, with a dash of Looney Toons thrown in for good measure.

The ever impressible Michael Cera stars as the aptly named Scott Pilgrim, a slacker who has found purpose in his life in the form of Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s spunky Ramona Flowers.

Yet this dream girl comes with baggage: 7 evil ex’s who Scott must vanquish if he wants to maintain a relationship with Ramona, and in a year which has seen the retro muscle bound buster of The Expendables and sci-fi espionage thrills of Inception, it is a surprise to say that Scott Pilgrim vs. The World features the best action scenes of 2010 (thus far).

Underneath the KAPOW! of swinging fists and funky crunch of duelling guitars is a warm heart beating digital blossoms, as the lovelorn Pilgrim fights for the hand of his love as if he were a modern day knight, with Smashing Pumpkins “Zero” t-shirt and bass guitar in place of armour and sword.

Making it all work is Wright’s enthusiastic and detailed direction. A brilliant display of style is presented, as Wright throws everything at the screen and not only makes it stick, but creates a new breed of sci-fi/fantasy./action/romantic comedy that is unique in look and feel, with a fun vibe felt throughout and made flesh in its infectiously good performances.

Brandon Routh has fun mocking his Superman persona, Ellen Wong’s aching over exuberance is both heartfelt and funny, and Jason Schwartzman brings the perfect smarmy vibe to his villain.

Yet it is Michael Cera who impresses the most. Coming off his fabulous turn in Youth in Revolt, Cera has defied his critics and transformed himself into a one of a kind leading man, exuding a cheeky rebellion and –in this case – portraying a convincing action hero.

Pure movie magic.