I've seen the reviews for Antman and the Wasp: Quantumania, and I understand the criticism, but there is plenty to like about this film. Let's start there.
Things to Like
At its heart, it's a story about a father and daughter, something unique in Marvel films. Yes, Scott Lang and Cassie Lang lost time, but the film focuses on how Scott's choices have affected his daughter. Paul Rudd, as usual, was funny and likable, and Kathryn Newton did an excellent job showing a character raised within that humor and quirkiness. The film perfectly shows the dynamic of family life; Scott must let go and trust that he did the best he could as a parent.
Jonathan Majors is incredible. His Kang terrifies with an almost nonchalant benevolence. Marvel fans should consider themselves lucky. Marvel has found the next great villain for the franchise. Like Tom Hiddleston and Josh Brolin before him, Majors created a complex villain that fans will love to hate.
Marvel helped him by choosing the Antman franchise as his debut because he views everyone as "ants." Whereas our protagonists care about each and every person, no matter how small. The Antman franchise is the family franchise and should have Dr. Seuss's morals.
I also enjoyed the visuals and Quantum Realm world-building. I enjoy those things. I do have a question, though. If Marvel makes a film with visual worldbuilding, people say it's just for show, but when James Cameron does it, it's a best picture nominee? (I haven't seen Avatar 2. Won't. I only made it through 45 minutes of the first cinematic disaster).
Additionally, I enjoy the humor. All of you brooding, joyless, pretentious braggarts can lay off of it. I get it. You're a super serious person with "higher" tastes. Okay. Good for you. No one invited you to the party to criticize the plebes. Go home.
Things not to like
While the movie is called Antman and the Wasp, it features very little of Evangeline Lily's Hope Van Dyne. Her character took a backseat in this film because of the larger story arcs for Janet and Cassie. Based on the story they told, it makes sense. Nonetheless, it's a little disappointing.
The Kang introduction overshadows the father-daughter story. The Antman series, at its core, is a story about family and doing what needs to be done to ensure the safety of future generations. I liked the story they told, and I like the Kang introduction, but they sidetrack each other in a way that makes both suffer, much like the dueling plots of Ironman 2.
Overall
This film doesn't have super highs or lows. It fits right into the Antman trilogy with quirkiness. Scott and Cassie are everyday people in a superhero world. I find that entertaining. The Antman films are always fun and silly, with unexpected visual twists. The characters are witty and awkward. It's fun.
If you didn't like it, I understand why. If you loved it, I get that, too. Be more like Scott Lang. Enjoy the ride and do what you can for your loved ones.
3.5/5
Ratings:
5: Life-changing
4: Great experience
3: Solid popcorn flick
2: I wish I was at home.
1: Humankind is a distinct evil that never deserved to be here
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