Uncover a miniscule Marvel movie of epic proportions in our Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania review.
Kicking off Phase 5 of the MCU in the smallest way possible, Quantumania sees the return of the little guy among the Avengers. I’m of course talking about Ant-Man, known for both supersized abilities and dry dad humour. Originally appearing in his debut standalone 2015 film “Ant-Man” and making appearances in 2016’s “Captain America: Civil War” and “Avengers: Endgame“, Paul Rudd has brought his charming style to the character of Ant-Man to become a fan favourite.
The debut of Ant-Man brought a real sense of scale to the MCU.
After a well-received sequel in “Ant-Man & the Wasp“, starring his companion and fellow insect warrior, Hope van Dyne as “The Wasp”, the duo explored the concept of the “Quantum Realm“. Existing in a reality beyond time and space, this mystical but miniscule dimension is the key driving force behind the Ant-Man series and is even further explored in the latest film: Ant-Man & the Wasp: Quantumania.
Quantumania brings the series’ unique brand of humour and heroism to the table interwoven through an interdimensional trip beyond time and space. But more than that, the film also offers a dynamic family relationship alongside formiddable threats, including the introduction of the MCU’s latest over-arching villain. So now it’s time to jump and tap into our Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania review!
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Review – Story
WARNING: Some minor plot spoilers ahead.
Scott Lang has saved the world, or so he’s led himself to believe. After the defeat of Thanos and harmony once again restored to Earth, Scott wants nothing more than to live a simple life and bask in the glory of his own fame. Signing books, taking pictures with fans (and their pets), and getting freebies for his work as (self-proclaimed) leader of the Avengers. Yep, Scott has got it all and nothing at all could go wrong. Well, if not for his daughter, Cassandra Lang.
Grappling with the struggles of parenthood, Scott’s relationship with his daughter is about as harmonious as the rest of his life. And after a stressful family reunion alongside his mother-in-law (who just so happened to spend an eternity in the Quantum Realm), the family uncover a secret that Cassandra has kept between herself and revolutionary scientist, Hank Pym. This teen savant has been able to communicate with the Quantum Realm, sending a signal into the depths of this parallel universe beyond where any Avenger has explored.
Taking down interdimensional foes is the best possible family bonding.
But looming within the Quantum Realm is a formidable foe who lusts for revenge, exiled to a dimension capable of containing him. This time-traveling conqueror is on a mission to acquire the Quantum Realm’s secrets, overthrowing eras and alternate realities. With Ant-Man and the team finding themselves once again in the Quantum Realm, they soon discover that this maniacal villain is hot on their trail and they must find a way to stop him before he can gain access to the multiverse.
The Kang of All Cosmos
Without giving too much away, Quantumania crafts a narrative that is both entertaining yet draws upon elements from across the Multiverse, with plenty of action and comedy to keep audiences engaged. The film’s main focus is on the relationship between Scott and his family, as well as their journey to protect the Quantum Realm and its inhabitants. Weaving in elements from the previous Ant-Man films, as well as connecting to the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe, the story is made specifically to appeal to MCU fans as opposed to casual viewers.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Review – Characters and Direction
As a character-driven series, Quantumania features an impressive ensemble cast, each of whom brings their own unique style and energy to the film. Paul Rudd reprises his role as Scott Lang/Ant-Man, and once again delivers a hilarious and charming performance. Rudd’s quick wit and sarcastic humour are on full display, balancing the humour with the film’s more dramatic moments and huge scale action sequences.
Evangeline Lilly also returns as Hope van Dyne/Wasp, and she delivers an even stronger performance than in previous films. Lilly is a standout in the film, bringing both toughness and heart to her portrayal of the Wasp. Her chemistry with Rudd is electric, and their scenes together, both as a couple and as a fellow hero are some of the highlights of the film. The same can also be said for Kathyrn Newton, who plays Scott’s daughter, Cassandra, and creates a pivotal role transforming a moody teen into a courageous hero.
But most of all, the highlight of all characters is without a doubt the MCU film debut of Jonathan Majors, joining the Multiverse as Kang the Conqueror. Majors brings a menacing and intimidating presence to the role, with what is a standout performance, setting the scene for his character to become one of the most memorable villains in the MCU.
Majors delivers and emotionally-charged performance as Kang the Conqueror.
Other notable actors in the film include Michelle Pfeiffer as Janet van Dyne and Michael Douglas as Hank Pym. Plus a couple of surprises which I won’t spoil! All of these actors bring their own unique dynamics, creating a believeable if not slightly chaotic family dynamic amidst a hostile world beyond our own. Seeing many of these actors return to their roles with deeper maturity and experience is sure to be a standout aspect of Quantumania for many fans.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Review – Visuals
As with most Marvel Cinematic Universe films, the devil is in the visual detail. And once again, the CGI department is working overtime, with flawless extra-terrestrial visuals in Quantumania that are visual sci-fi smorgasbord. The film boasts absurd character designs and breathtaking visuals that bring the quantum realm to life in a way that is both visually stunning and draws inspiration from real-life scientific study. The use of different scales, whether it be the macro or micro level, is used to great effect and adds to the fantastical aspect of the film.
Without a doubt the most standout visual feature is the Quantum Realm itself, where the filmmakers have taken great care to create an otherworldly environment that is both beautiful and trippy. The quantum realm is filled with strange and unique landscapes, grotesque yet enticing creatures, and structures that are unlike anything seen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe before. The vibrant colours, intricate designs, and unusual shapes all combine to create a truly mesmerizing environment that is sure to leave fans in awe.
(L-R): Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant-Man and Kathryn Newton as Cassandra “Cassie” Lang in Marvel Studios’ ANT-MAN AND THE WASP: QUANTUMANIA. Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2022 MARVEL.
The action scenes in the film are also noteworthy in terms of their visuals, with exciting and well-choreographed action sequences that are brought to life through a grand sense of scale. Size-shifting plays a significant part in the film’s setpieces, as Ant-Man and Wasp (among others) use their abilities to become giant or shrink down to mere atoms. These size-shifting moments carry significant weight, particularly one of the film’s most memorable fight sequences, which proves to be among the most colossal in the entire MCU.
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania Review – Soundtrack and Audio
Returning from his work on the first two films, Canadian composer Cristophe Beck is back once again to create the sounds and score of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. His latest soundtrack features the typical blend of epic Marvel orchestral pieces, but mashes them together with electronic beats and quirky sound effects that perfectly complement the film’s alien nature and setting.
The main theme of Quantumania, mixing blaring brass with mysterious alien tones.
Beck’s score is used to great effect in the film, heightening the emotional stakes during intense action sequences and adding to the comedic moments with playful and light-hearted music. The composer does a great job of capturing the quirky and whimsical spirit of the Ant-Man franchise, and his music carries the film throughout many of its best moments. One of the standout tracks in the soundtrack is the theme for Kang the Conqueror, which is both menacing and haunting, which we’ll be sure to hear numerous times throughout Phase 5.
Credit must also be given to the sound effects and audio of Quantumania, which play a crucial role in immersion. Its surround sound mix is robust and thunderous, with Dolby Atmos creating crystal-clear audio that perfectly captures the sounds of the various environments in the film. Whether it’s the hum of the quantum realm or the bustle of the foreign Quantum Realm civilisations, the sound design does a great job of creating a believable and unbelievable world for audiences to experience.
Conclusion
Where the Marvel series is one dominated by huge action heroes, it’s important to always look out for the little guy. Offering the ideal balance of action, comedy, and character development, Quantumania proves to be one of the most engaging and enthralling MCU entries yet, inviting viewers even deeper into the absurdity of the Quantum realm. And this just wouldn’t be possible without its lead star, Paul Rudd, once again carrying the film on his tiny (and sometimes colossal) shoulders. Because you can’t spell QuANTuMANia without Ant-Man.
So, why should you watch Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania?
- Stunning and eccentric visuals that bring the Quantum realm to life
- Impressive and immersive surround sound audio mix
- Paul Rudd as Ant-Man is as charming and entertaining as ever
- Excellent balance of action, exploration, and comedy
But why shouldn’t you watch Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania?
- Some deviation from source material that hardcore fans may not enjoy
- Certain characters feel strangely out of place, even in an alien world
A preview screening was kindly provided by Marvel Australia and Shout Communications for the purpose of our Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania review. If you enjoyed this, be sure to join the discussion over on the Qualbert Discord and check out more of our Marvel reviews!
