So Ant-Man hits the big screens today, and unless you consider yourself a Marvel Comics enthusiast, you’re probably asking yourself, “Who is Ant-Man?” And the small portion of you with bug fear is probably now asking, “Wait, does that mean there are going to be ants in the movie?” I’m afraid so, and a lot at that. They’re not menacing, I promise, quite cute actually. Hopefully that hasn’t scared you away. No judgment from me. I have snake fear, and a disclaimer is always appreciated.
If you have braved through the bug issues long enough to continue with me, then let’s get down to talking about Marvel Studios’ latest addition, Ant-Man. It is the story of two very different gentlemen. One, the golden aged Dr. Hank Pym, is on top of a scientific empire that has long since evolved past him and holding a very tiny secret close to the chest. The other, newly released ex-con Scott Lang, stands before the very bottom of his life, a life he has to build with nothing but futile scraps to reach a place where he can not only be with his young daughter, but be worthy of her. With both lives on the verge of falling apart, Dr. Pym offers both men a solution, an alliance that not only will solve both men’s problems, but just might save the world in the process. Plus, ants.
I’ll be completely honest. This was the first Marvel Studios film that I was really hesitant about seeing. This film has had a rough start since day one. Several setbacks from pushed back filming dates to Edgar Wright dropping out as director. Even casting became questionable when they announced they were going to make a Scott Lang Ant-Man story and have an aged Dr. Hank Pym. Comic book fans understand the last point, and I will elaborate on it a bit later. If there was ever going to a Marvel Studios movie that would flop, Ant-Man was surely showing itself as a contender.
Turns out Ant-Man is a fun and extremely entertaining movie. It is very humorous. I did not expect how comedic it would be. Subtract a fight scene or two and this could be classified as a comedy. I expected some laughs with the use of Edgar Wright‘s initial contribution to the script. Edgar Wright is known for his collaboration with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost on films, Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World’s End. All three are very comedic films with a bit of action mixed in. Once you add actor Paull Rudd’s comedic talents not only on screen, but with finishing the script along with comedic director and writer alum, Adam McKay, you have a very different Marvel movie. Michael Douglas’s performance as Dr. Hank Pym balanced with Paul Rudd’s Scott Lang handled the comedy with grace that only years of experience and talent could allow. Definitely, comic book and non-comic book lovers will find enjoying this film not exactly a difficult task.
As for comic book hesitations, I can smooth some of that out for you. I had a lot more issues with Ant-Man before I saw Avengers: Age of Ultron. This being mainly due to having an Ultron, but no Dr. Hank Pym. In most comic book variations of the Ultron storyline, Tony Stark supplied the technology that made up Ultron, but Dr. Hank Pym created the artificial intelligence that made Ultron. Without going into great detail concerning the Avengers: Age of Ultron movie, they basically replaced the man with an object, and it made sense in that film. That eased some of the troubled waters for me, but I still didn’t understand why Marvel chose the old man D. Hank Pym to make Scott Lang Ant-Man. Dr. Hank Pym was on the original Avengers in the comics. It initially seemed off to slide line him like this. This really ends up not mattering when you see the movie. The story flows well, makes sense, and just simply keeps you laughing.
As for bringing the little ones along, Ant-Man is rated PG-13. Your discretion will be needed to determine what your child can and cannot handle. I would rate this film along the lines of the first Thor film with a little less violence and a lot more comedy. Thor is currently considered the least violent of all the current Marvel Studio’s movies. The jokes aren’t too bad either when dealing with adult content. It is there, but nothing like Guardians of the Galaxy. My six year-old nephew has seen some of the Marvel movies based on what his parents believe he can handle, THOR being a favorite. I immediately recommended that he could see Ant-Man.
This can be a great stop for the whole family and can add laughter to your summer fun and a welcome reprieve from the summer heat. Make your movie choice this weekend, Ant-Man. You will not regret it.
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That movie was so good. I can’t believe the teasers at the end – no spoilers!
My hubby and I saw it tonight, and it was SO GOOD! I loved the story, the comedy, and the cast. Paul Rudd is such a lovable actor.
I have seen a lot of hype for this movie…but I knew nothing about it! I just thought it was a bit of an odd title. After reading your review, I think I’ll probably see it. I like knowing what to expect. 🙂 Thanks!
I have been seeing lots of commercials for this movie. I’m not really sure what to think about it yet.
I just saw ads for this movie on TV this morning. Might have to think about taking the kids to see it this week!