Ant-Man is the latest offering from the Marvel comic universe, its directed by Peyton Reed [Yes Man, The Break-Up] and is written by Joe Cornish [Attack the Block] and Edgar Wright [Scott Pilgrim vs the World].
Ant-Man – Paul Rudd
Paul Rudd stars as Scott Lang, a criminal in search of redemption as he is given a second chance by being armed with a super-suit with the ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength. Scott must therefore embrace his inner hero to help his mentor Dr. Hank Pym [Michael Douglas], plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.
Ant-Man: The Good
Ant-Man is a light hearted and fast paced addition to the Marvel Universe, than other offerings such as Captain America or Thor its more in the realms of Iron Man territory in terms of characters, comedy and tongue firmly in cheek as at one point Scott points out to his mentor Pym about the nature of the suit “Is it too late to change the name?”
Paul Rudd is extremely likeable and has a great screen presence in his first major leading role. He brings his signature deadpan humour to the role and gets most of the laughs, especially trying the Ant-Man suit on for the first time. He is also a character you can easily route for, a desperate father trying to do right in order to keep custody of his daughter.
Michael Douglas is the perfect choice for Dr. Pym as he brings the ever charismatic presence that he displays in all his movies as this is his first superhero/ big budget movie. He’s clearly enjoying himself here as his character is a major part of the plot.
The other joy of Ant-Man are the supporting characters, Michael pena stars as Scotts buddy/partner in crime” Luis” who gets most of the big laughs as a wisecracking criminal. Corey Stoll stars as Dr. Pyms one time protege turned rival “Darren Cross” [Also known as the “Yellowjacket”].
Peyton Reed has directed a superhero movie that should appeal more to wider audience both young and old. Its introduces a new superhero in alighted way for younger kids but still displays the same thrills and excitement for adults, particularly the scenes when scott uses the suit its shot like a scene from “Honey I Shrunk the Kids” It displays magic moments of genius and wonder that explores the nature of science and its role in the modern world.
Ant-Man: The Bad
Ant-Man is still part of the Marvel Universe and so can’t resist frequent references to the Avengers and Captain America, its far more enjoyable as a stand alone movie.
Conclusion:
Overall, Ant-man is a fast-paced, witty and thrilling addition to the Marvel Universe and a winning lead turn from Paul Rudd which should cement his status as new leading action hero.
Ant-Man Movie Poster