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As Scott Lang balances being both a Super Hero and a father, Hope van Dyne and Dr. Hank Pym present an urgent new mission that finds the Ant-Man fighting alongside The Wasp to uncover secrets from their past.
As far as Marvel films go, this film may surpass positive reviews by critics and audiences. It marks the return of Paul Rudd as Ant-Man and Evangeline Lilly who will be the star as the Wasp. Michael Douglas and Michael Peña return as their supportive helpers.
“Ant-man” is like an all-new “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” movie, but in a superhero version. This film serves as the small plot leak for the “Avengers: Infinity War” and the upcoming “Avengers 4.” The latest installment centers on Scott Lang (Rudd) who tries to balance his life as an ordinary house father and his superhero role as Ant-Man. When the new mission arrives, he must team up with another anti-hero called the Wasp (Lilly).
Peyton Reed’s direction, while outstanding, is somewhat cheesy compared to the original “Ant-Man,” which he also directed. The comedy also adds a nice touch, thanks to scriptwriters and the supporting actor Michael Peña who keeps his personality real and plays the part pretty straightforward just like it was before.
I enjoyed the comedy provided by Michael Douglas as Hank Pym, Randall Park (Jimmie Woo), and Abby Ryder Fortson as Cassie, Scott’s daughter. Tip “T.I.” Harris as Dave and David Dastmalchian were humorous as well.
I loved the action sequences, which were stunning experiences. They were highly detailed compared to the “Fast and the Furious” films, “Baby Driver,” and any road-chasing films you may have seen. There are extra points gags when the visual effects are well-done.
The villain, portrayed by Hannah John-Kamen (Ava/Ghost) who appears on and off-screen, is more problematic. The villain in this film is much more irreverent than in other Marvel films. The setting is a big question. The filmmakers did not consider the time period, although there was a theory that this film takes place after “Captain America: Civil War.”
My favorite scenes from “Ant-Man and the Wasp” are Peña’s character, Luis, which will bring down the house. Marvel comic legend Stan Lee has a funny cameo, and the post-credits scene produces non-stop laughs.
I actually met Stan Lee in person when he comes to Dallas in April 2017 on his final Texas appearance and I know he keeps up with his cameos in upcoming Marvel films. The sequence builds anticipation for “Avengers 4” and it is the best post-credit scene to date out of many of the Marvel movies. Be aware that this upcoming sequel will be released in May 2019.
“Ant-Man and the Wasp” is delightful in that it delivers action-packed sequences, laugh-out-loud moments, and dazzling stunts. Rudd, Lilly, Douglas, and Peña really fit the bill. Anyone who is a fan of Ant-Man or any Marvel character will enjoy this bad boy. It’s a fun-filled adventure with Ant-Man and more funny stories from Peña.
In theaters Friday, July 6th
