Ant-Man’s Party Trick
In terms of the contribution of Ant-Man, this is a giant spoiler. It’s not really something that is vital to the plot, but it is, by far, one of the greatest moments in the film – specifically because it is entirely unexpected.
Scott Lang has been recruited to Captain America’s side of the Avengers conflict, by Falcon, who previously crossed paths with the size-shifting superhero in his own solo movie. It makes sense, too – Lang is familiar with the sensation of being a fugitive from justice, and has spent his fair share of time incarcerated. He is, needless to say, both humbled and excited to join the team.
The two opposing factions of the Avengers clash at a deserted airport area, with Cap and Bucky having identified the fact that they need to get to Siberia to address the real cause of the problem, and Iron Man and his crew determined to stop them. The group have been battling for a while when Cap’s side decide that they need a diversion of some kind – something to distract the others long enough for Cap and Bucky to reach the Quinjet, which is tucked away in a nearby hangar.
Ant-Man pipes up, declaring that he has an idea – although it might tear him in half. It’s a little trick he’s learned, but which he has only ever tried “in a lab” – during which he “fainted.” The group agree to proceed, Ant-Man pushes his special button, and… the result is utterly inspired.