It’s a difficult task trying to avoid “an adventure on a smaller scale” puns when discussing Marvel Studios’ latest entry Ant-Man, but that’s exactly why the movie feels so refreshing. After the all star whirlwind that was Age of Ultron and the Avengers and Captain America’s storylines poised to become increasingly complex, this newest superhero epic feels much more toned down. Lacking any major MCU-shaking moments, its appeal mainly comes from its droll sense of humor and a surprisingly gentle nature.
There’s plenty of comic book film worthy action, more so in the movie’s second half, but at times its PG-13 rating felt soft. Thanks to the story’s wacky science angle, there’s next to nothing I could say is especially graphic or too harsh for kids, even among the film’s few casualties.
Producer Kevin Feige and director Peyton Reed seem to be aware of how inherently ridiculous and unimposing (at first glance) the concept of a tiny superhero is, so framing it as a comedic heist caper was a wise choice. Not every comic book film can be a Dark Knight or a Watchmen, and even though it frames itself well within the greater confines of the Marvel continuity, there’s something admirable about Ant-Man’s restraint compared to other movies of its kind.
Paul Rudd plays cat burglar turned second Ant-Man Scott Lang, with Michael Douglas as scientist Hank Pym. Hank created the formula that led to him developing a suit with the ability to rearrange the wearer’s molecular structure, thus becoming the first Ant-Man. Their chemistry together provides an equal amount of believably heartfelt moments, as well as some funny banter and verbal Easter eggs for comic nerds in the audience. Even though they’re often at odds, they still remain sympathetic.
Pym’s former protégé Darren Cross (an arrogant and very evil, but still charming Corey Stoll) becomes obsessed with discovering the secrets of Pym’s shrinking serum, enough to develop his own suit (and inevitably, an entire armored battalion) called the Yellowjacket. Too frail to once again suit up, Hank picks out a reluctant Lang for his stealth skill in the hopes he can help him and his daughter Hope (Evangeline Lily) stop Cross from using the technology for evil purposes.
Considering that Cross is more than willing to “shrink-liquefy” and kill co-workers he dislikes, and is also the kind of guy that animal tests on cute little lambs and vaporizes them, I’d say Pym’s got a good reason to be concerned. The abusive background of Hank towards his late wife Janet in the comics isn’t overtly hinted at, but a quick remark about seeing darker aspects of his personality in Cross might give a few fans pause.
Ant Man’s mid summer release feels similar to Guardians Of The Galaxy, another Marvel movie whose protagonists were dashing thieves that eventually are reformed into heroes. Here they’re in the form of Pym and his criminal cohorts, Luis (a hilarious Michael Pena), Dave (Tip “T.I.” Harris) and Kurt (David Dastmalchian). The trio provide a good chunk of the comic relief in the second half, alongside the new husband of Lang’s ex-wife, Jim (Bobby Cannavale), who thankfully is not dismissed as a generic obstacle. Scott hasn’t been able to get back into the life of his daughter Cassie (Abby Ryder Fortson) since he fell into crime, and his quest to redeem himself in his family’s eyes thanks to Rudd’s performance always feels sincere.
But for all of the sentimental moments in the film, it doesn’t skimp on the potential thrills from its concept. Lang’s flights on the back of various flying insects are visually intense and worthy of any IMAX theater. The finale will forever change the way you look at your model trains, and his shrinking power allows for some creative fight scenes, especially when he scuffles with a certain winged Avenger.
Of course, being Ant-Man, he has to apologize because he seems like such a nice guy. I can easily recommend it for anyone looking for a good family friendly superhero caper, with some strong comedy on the side.