Ant-Man: Paul Rudd appears as Scott Lang in first official photo

Marvel Studios has released the first official photograph from Ant-Man.

The image features Paul Rudd as protagonist Scott Lang, a con-man who turns superhero after gaining the ability to shrink in size while increasing in strength.

Michael Douglas will co-star in the comic book-inspired movie, playing Lang’s mentor Dr Hank Pym. Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll, John Slattery, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Pena and rapper TI feature among the supporting cast.

“Armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, con-man Scott Lang must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor, Dr Hank Pym, protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats,” reads Marvel’s synopsis for the film.

“Against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Pym and Lang must plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.”

Peyton Reed is directing Ant-Man – which arrives in cinemas on 15th July next year – following the departure of Edgar Wright due to creative differences.

Filming on the project commenced in San Francisco earlier this week.