SHAUN SPROULE
The latest cinematic instalment from Marvel Studios has been released, with one of the lesser-known Marvel superheroes, Ant-Man, as its main character. The movie follows former burglar Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) as he is recruited by mastermind and former S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Hank Pym (Michael Douglas). The technology behind his suit’s ability to shrink in size is under threat of falling into the wrong hands, and Pym, the inventor of the technology, needs to ensure it stays safe. Pym needs to recruit a new protégé before his former apprentice invents and sells the technology to Hydra, a terrorist organisation. Before this happens, Lang must prove himself as an able superhero in order to save the day.
Some were reluctant to accept the casting decision when it was announced that Paul Rudd would be cast as Ant-Man. Rudd has starred in films such as This is 40 and Role Models, and his is not the first name that comes to mind when thinking about a superhero. Rudd pulled the role off convincingly, however, with his comedic skill adding to the film as a whole.
All too often, superhero films have unbelievable and confusing explanations for the superpowers that the characters receive. However, starting with Iron Man, most superhero films have reverted to technological advances, which make most superpowers believable in today’s environment. Paired with the classic ups and downs that superheroes face, the film started to feel a bit clichéd and predictable.
Aside from the movie itself, the audience gets their first glimpse of Falcon as Marvel tries to bring the its vast universe together, as well as clues about the new film, Captain America: Civil War, which is set to be released in 2016. Fans were also happy to see another cameo appearance by Stan Lee in the film, as is Marvel’s longstanding tradition.
Overall, the film is humorous and enjoyable but not as serious as some of the other films in the Marvel family.
Rating: 3/5
Editor - 2018/2019