Marvel and director Edgar Wright are getting closer to selecting the star of ANT-MAN and the top contenders could not be more different. Variety is reporting that while another actor may be considered, the front-runners to play ANT-MAN are Paul Rudd and Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
The naming of these two actors is interesting because of the strengths of both performers. Rudd is known mainly as a comedic actor and could definitely pull off the smart-ass quality of a superhero like Ant-Man. With Wright directing, you know there is a humor element for the film. Wright wrote the screenplay with Joe Cornish (ATTACK THE BLOCK) so I would think the casting of Rudd would fall in line more with Chris Pratt being selected to headline GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY.
On the other hand, Joseph Gordon-Levitt has proven himself as a quality actor, writer, and director with the humorous DON JON as well as excellent performances in LOOPER, INCEPTION, and THE DARK KNIGHT RISES. Gordon-Levitt was often named as a possible contender as the new Batman based on the ending of Nolan’s final Dark Knight movie but that was eventually rebooted with Ben Affleck cast as the Caped Crusader.
Honestly, I like both choices, but it really depends on which direction you want to take the movie. Joseph Gordon-Levitt could bring a Peter Parker-like quality to ANT-MAN that is missing in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Plus, he is younger and could play the role longer. Rudd, while older, definitely has the acting chops and comedic timing for the part. I would be happy to see either actor take the role.
ANT-MAN is slated to open July 31, 2015.