Why The Incredible Hulk (2008) Deserves a Second Chance in the MCU!

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Discussing things deemed overrated can seem dull and unproductive. It’s hard to understand its purpose, and it sometimes comes off as harsh. There are already enough platforms promoting unkind behavior. Instead, let’s concentrate more on fostering the unique qualities in everyone – their inner misfit or rebel. To use a modern expression, I prefer a hipster over a critic any day. It is with this sentiment that I must admit my secret affection for 2008’s The Incredible Hulk – a film often criticized and disregarded by our unnecessarily critical society.

The movie is usually viewed with a meme-style perspective. Edward Norton didn’t return to play Bruce Banner in future installments. This has led some Marvel Cinematic Universe fans to underestimate him as the Hulk. However, this is incorrect because the movie is not just entertaining, but also deserves more recognition after the premiere of “Captain America: New World Order.

To begin with, Edward Norton is an exceptional actor, although he might not immediately spring to mind for the iconic character. Despite not perfectly embodying the galactic nerd persona of Banner as Ruffalo did in The Avengers, Norton delivers a commendable portrayal considering the material at hand. His performance has a delicate vulnerability that starkly contrasts with the colossal green rage monster within him. However, it falls short of the lively, almost buddy-cop dynamic of Thor: Ragnarok’s interpretation.

Norton’s banner radiates a mix of weariness and hopefulness (very relatable indeed!). This portrayal is effective because being the Hulk, unlike many other Avengers, is far from enjoyable. Throughout the years, I’ve interpreted this character as a metaphor, in a sense, for managing illnesses. It’s about finding ways to cope and coexist with it—for your own well-being and that of those around you.

As a film enthusiast, let me tell you, watching The Incredible Hulk is like stepping into a different universe compared to the jovial Hulk we see in the current MCU. This Hulk, much like Pennywise the Clown, exudes an unsettling rage that’s hard to ignore. The film doesn’t shy away from this anger, and it makes you truly understand the raw power that the Hulk possesses.

After watching Mark Ruffalo in other films, I’ve grown accustomed to seeing the Hulk as a lively brute. However, this movie paints him as a force that should be feared. The opening credits, which swiftly and effectively recap how Banner ended up here, emanate an eerie horror atmosphere that sets the tone for the entire film.

In today’s MCU, some might say the feel is like doing homework. But perhaps infusing more stylized openers with the same chilling vibe could serve as a unique signature for future films.

This movie stands out in an unusual way due to its leisurely segments. It features Bruce embarking on a global trek, clad only in cargo shorts, and relying on the kindness of strangers for support. Scenes of him practicing yoga, learning a language through shows like Sesame Street, contribute to the movie’s heartfelt essence. Later, Natasha Romanoff in Avengers: Age of Ultron poignantly remarks that Banner flees from battles because he knows he’ll prevail, and this film lends an authenticity to such a portrayal.

One of the movie’s strongest points might be its villain, Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, portrayed by the late William Hurt, who is as malevolent as anyone can get. In a tone suggesting admiration and possibility, Ross says “Now she’ll see,” after deliberately unleashing the horrific force of the Hulk, a statement that hints at destruction rather than fear. Essentially, Ross embodies the military – a recurring adversary in Hulk tales – and the pursuit of power, convinced that America, with its moral authority, can wield such power justly.

In the novel “Brave New World,” the character Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford, undergoes a transformation that some viewers might find disappointing or contradictory to his original character development as seen in “The Incredible Hulk.” This change, while perhaps understandable for various storytelling reasons, seems to go against the principles we’ve learned from “The Incredible Hulk,” making it feel like a betrayal of the character. Setting aside the age of the movie and the ongoing debate about the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s tendency towards fan service, this article focuses on the narrative choice itself, which appears to be devoid of specific audience consideration.

Harrison Ford’s acting is undeniably impressive, but finding emotional resonance in Ross’ character seeking to negotiate access to adamantium for powerful countries seems challenging, given the subject matter. This plot point appears reminiscent of the controversial resolution seen in Game of Thrones. The connection between the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the military-industrial complex has been a recurring topic. However, it seems more overt than it initially was.

The political themes of “The Incredible Hulk” are quite apparent through the actions of its antagonist and what he symbolizes. However, Captain America’s politics, which lie beneath the surface and could be further developed in a sequel, seem to be overshadowed by this blatant disregard, creating an opportunity that feels significantly underused. This lackluster portrayal is hard not to notice.

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CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD Won’t Make You Angry, Just Disappointed (Review)

In simpler terms, I wouldn’t call “Brave New World” absolutely awful, it’s actually less bad than one might expect. Given my unusual tastes, I’ll probably watch it again. The visual of the shield bouncing around is quite appealing to me. However, its ending leaves much to be desired, feeling overly simplistic with a message like “Sometimes people make mistakes.” That’s not particularly satisfying. Compared to the Edward Norton film, this 2008 version lacks the resolution found in that one, where Ross doesn’t receive forgiveness but instead his daughter Betsy essentially cuts him off. It’s quite grim, yet necessary, and even more daring by contemporary standards.

In a somewhat bitter twist, Bruce finds himself departing yet again from the life he cherishes and the woman he adores. This decision is necessary to protect an extraordinary power within him, one that could either save or destroy the world, from those who wish to misuse it. The movie concludes with a scene reminiscent of its earlier global landscapes, showing Bruce living in peaceful mountain solitude. He spends his days brewing coffee in a cozy cabin, continues his yoga and meditation, and his eyes now glow green, but this time with a content smile.

The Incredible Hulk story revolves around overcoming the terrifying consequences that diseases can bring into our lives and a reminder of the importance of balance. We may not be able to completely eliminate some of these fears or our past, but what we can do is strive for improvement and seek control. It’s worth the effort. To conclude, even though this message might seem cliché, it doesn’t make it any less accurate.

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2025-02-27 21:03