In the vast and ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), one iconic character has undergone several transformations to become the friendly, humorous, and relatable Hulk we know today. However, there’s a lesser-known chapter in the MCU that delves into the complex and emotionally unpredictable side of Dr. Bruce Banner. Join us as we revisit 2008’s “The Incredible Hulk,” the only MCU movie featuring Edward Norton in the lead role.
“The Incredible Hulk” arrived on the heels of “Iron Man” in 2008, with fans eager to see how Marvel would handle the character after the previous 2003 adaptation’s disappointment. Unlike the current MCU portrayal, this movie portrayed a Bruce Banner grappling with fear and isolation, living in seclusion to protect others from his uncontrollable powers. While it may seem distinct from the present-day MCU, it remains part of the continuity and sets the stage for the Hulk’s eventual involvement in the Avengers.
Marvel sought an established A-list actor with box office draw for this pivotal role, and Edward Norton fit the bill perfectly. Norton brought his own vision for the character, reworking the script to add depth and gravitas to Bruce Banner. Director Louis Leterrier acknowledged Norton’s contribution, recognizing superheroes as modern-day Greek Gods, transcending the appeal of mere teenage audiences.
Interestingly, had things unfolded differently behind the scenes, Edward Norton could still be the Hulk in the MCU. However, the success of “Iron Man” led Marvel to expedite production on other projects, including “The Incredible Hulk.”
The movie picks up without rehashing Hulk’s origin, previously explored in Ang Lee’s 2003 adaptation. Instead, it uses the opening credits to recap how Bruce gains his powers and almost harms Betty Ross, his love interest and General Ross’s daughter, during his first transformation.
In contrast to the comic book origin, where the Hulk is Bruce Banner’s alter ego, this movie presents a more somber and tormented Bruce, resenting and fearing his uncontrollable alter ego. Bruce lives in Brazil, hiding from the U.S. government, which seeks to capture him. His goal is to find a cure for his condition, and the movie’s tone stands apart from the typical lightheartedness of the MCU.
The action unfolds as General Ross and Emile Blonsky hunt down Bruce, resulting in his first Hulk transformation in Brazil. Though the scene offers exciting glimpses of the Hulk, some feel the teasing could have been trimmed for a smoother flow.
The plot thickens as Bruce seeks Betty’s help to meet Mr. Blue, a scientist who claims to cure him. General Ross’s pursuit doesn’t deter Betty, and the movie avoids a more complex exploration of the father-daughter relationship.
Despite some Easter eggs and fun references, “The Incredible Hulk” struggles with a generic plot that fails to stand out from other superhero movies. The climactic battle between Hulk and Abomination offers smashing action but lacks depth.
As the film ends, Bruce remains on the run, no closer to finding a cure. While “The Incredible Hulk” is a functional addition to the MCU, it ultimately proves forgettable in the grand scheme of the universe. Fans yearned for a Hulk movie that delved deeper into the character’s duality, exploring the dark journey of a hero who struggles with inner turmoil.
In the end, “The Incredible Hulk” stands as a successful and decent superhero movie, featuring strong performances and solid visuals. While not as revolutionary as “Iron Man” or heartwarming as “Guardians of the Galaxy,” it plays a functional role within the MCU tapestry.
