The Marvel universe continues to expand with “Ant-Man,” a fitting first chapter for the pint sized hero.

“Ant-Man” stars Paul Rudd as Scott Lang, a petty thief trying to get his life back together after a stint in prison.

Lang is approached by a scientist named Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) to help him stop Pym’s former mentor Darren Cross (Corey Stoll) from unleashing a variation of an experiment that Pym began years ago — the creation of a suit that that gives a person the ability to shrink in scale, while increasing strength.

Rudd may not seem like the typical action hero, but his ability at laid back quips plays well for “Ant-Man.”

This is an origin story with plenty of origin, but also a sly kind of humor that sometimes gets pushed aside in all these comic book films.

Director Peyton Reed does a really good job of taking this pint sized hero and creating some impressive use of size and space. This is a film that is best viewed on the biggest screen possible, so you can engulf yourself in the action and fun.

Rudd isn’t asked to do all the heavy lifting, aided by a quality supporting cast.

It’s nice to see Douglas back in his element. Evangaline Lilly is also good as Pym’s daughter, while rapper TI and Michael Pena provide some welcome comic relief.

In the world of Marvel, “Ant-Man” may seem a bit light, but I appreciated the way the story unfolded in an almost self-aware way.

It all builds to a great finale, with some really fun visuals, that help get the “Ant-Man” franchise off to a solid start.

“Ant-Man”

Starring: Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas

Rating: PG-13 for sci-fi action violence

Playing at: Regal Bowling Green Stadium 12, Highland Cinemas (Glasgow)

Grade: B