Marvel has confirmed Peyton Reed as the director of “Ant-Man,” and says Adam McKay will contribute to the script.
The news Saturday came a day after TheWrap reported that Reed, director of “Yes Man,” was the frontrunner for the superhero project, which stars Paul Rudd. “Anchorman” director McKay had also been a candidate.
Also read: ‘Yes Man’s’ Peyton Reed Is Frontrunner to Direct Marvel’s ‘Ant-Man’ (Exclusive)
Speculation about who would direct the July 17, 2015 film has been rampant since Edgar Wright stepped down as director May 23 over creative differences with Marvel.
The film — which also features Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, Michael Douglas, and Michael Peña — is part of the next wave of Marvel films, which includes this summer’s “Guardians of the Galaxy.”
Also read: Edgar Wright Exits Marvel’s ‘Ant-Man’
“Ant-Man” finds con man Scott Lang (Rudd) embracing his inner hero to help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym (Douglas), protect the Ant-Man suit, which allows its wearer to change his size. Together they must pull off a heist that will save the world.
Reed is represented by WME and attorney Robert Offer.