Ant-Man (12A)

Directed by Peyton Reed
Starring Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Evangeline Lily, Michael Peńa

Marvel's latest benefits from the always charming Paul Rudd as the titular Ant-Man. Michael Douglas bringing some class and Evangeline Lily just about surviving a terrible haircut and rampant sexism (slightly explained by an over protective daddy).
Rudd is struggling ex-con Scott who ends up being tasked by scientist Hank Pym to wear the special Ant Man suit to save the world or something... This despite his super hot, super clever and kick-ass daughter Hope (Lily) being by far the better candidate. Is dad just prejudiced or afraid to lose his little girl? Can Scott team up with ants to defeat Corey Stoll's cartoon baddie?
This film has a nice tongue in cheek sense of humour and a refreshing lack of city smashing that has blighted recent Marvel movies. Michael Peńa steals the show as Scott's pal, while it is always nice to see Hayley Attwell and John Slattery pop in to a Marvel film. The ant man miniature effects are fun, the climactic fight featuring Thomas the Tank Engine is very entertaining.
In the seemingly never ending MCU films this is an enjoyable addition thanks to a charismatic cast and a fun and frothy script.
8/10

July 2015