Two weeks after the departure of Edgar Wright from the superhero movie Ant-Man, Marvel has finally settled on a new director for the project. The studio announced on its website Saturday that it has enlisted Peyton Reed to helm the project, with a script written in part by AnchormandirectorAdam McKay.
Superhero Worship: Top 40 Marvel Movie Ideas, Ranked
Reeds previous directing credits include Yes Man, The Break-Up and Bring It On, as well as the Upright Citizens Brigade TV series and the David Cross and Bob Odenkirk cult sketch comedy Mr. Show. He had previously developed the Marvel peroperty Fantastic Four before the film was taken over by Tim Story, according to Variety.
Adam McKay confirmed that he had been in talks for the Ant-Man directing job at the end of May, but ultimately turned it down to focus on other commitments. Instead, hell help rewrite the script.
The production appeared to be in turmoil on May 23rd, when Wright left Ant-Man, citing differences with Marvel. The director, known for the distinctive style he developed in films including Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and The Worlds End, had co-written the movies script with Joe Cornish. Despite the shake-ups, Marvel is still planning on its original July 2015 release date.
The film stars Paul Rudd as the titular superhero, who has the ability to shrink in size while increasing in strength. Michael Douglas will join him as scientist Hank Pym, the original Ant-Man, and Evangeline Lilly, Patrick Wilson, Michael Pea and Corey Stoll are also reportedly attached to the film.