It’s Impossible For Marvel To Fix The Incredible Hulk

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It's Impossible For Marvel To Fix The Incredible Hulk

Key Takeaways

  • Hulk’s character in the MCU has been dramatically changed towards a more humanized version.
  • Hulk’s inner conflict, fear-inducing menace, and uniqueness have been lost over time.
  • Marvel faces a challenge in returning Hulk to his former, powerful, and uncontrollable glory.

As a seasoned gamer and Marvel Cinematic Universe enthusiast who has witnessed the evolution of Hulk since his debut, I must say that the transformation of the Green Goliath into a more humanized version has left me feeling rather… smashed.

One classic superhero that stands out is The Incredible Hulk, effortlessly identifiable to many. This is why Marvel wisely included him in the initial Avengers squad and made him a central figure across all primary films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe to date.

Nevertheless, the character of Hulk has undergone significant transformation from his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to his latest portrayal in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. Currently, he’s been made more relatable, which presents a challenge for Marvel that appears difficult to resolve as events unfold.

How Marvel Ruined The Incredible Hulk

It's Impossible For Marvel To Fix The Incredible Hulk

Initially, Hulk’s introduction in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was well-received, despite many forgetting about the 2008 film “The Incredible Hulk” and the character’s recasting from Edward Norton to Mark Ruffalo. However, since then, his development within the MCU has been a point of contention for fans. The Avengers’ strongest asset, Hulk, has undergone significant changes that have left many feeling disappointed with a character once loved.

Gradually, the beastly aspect of the Hulk was whittled down over time, reaching a climax in “Avengers: Endgame”, where he transformed into ‘Smart Hulk’. This fusion occurred as well.

In a more casual and readable style: Bruce Banner, or “Smart Hulk,” has been portrayed as cool and calm in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, this version of the character, which is more intellectually capable, has overshadowed the original appeal of Hulk. The classic Hulk was intriguing because he embodied uncontrolled anger and hidden emotions, qualities that resonate with many viewers who can relate to bottling up their own fury. Unfortunately, the MCU has seemed to overlook what made Hulk so appealing in the first place by focusing more on his intelligence rather than his raw power and destructive potential.

He’s Lost His Inner-Conflict

It's Impossible For Marvel To Fix The Incredible Hulk

The unique trait of Hulk that sets him apart is his internal struggle between suppressing his rage and deciding between righteousness and wickedness. On one hand, Bruce Banner is a brilliant scientist, highly intelligent, and tranquil. Conversely, the Hulk embodies destruction, aggression, and unbridled anger to the extreme, making him seemingly uncontrollable and erratic. Regrettably, over time, Marvel has diminished Hulk’s strength to the point where he appears more like an ordinary Avenger rather than a formidable force capable of battling any villain while striking terror into his teammates.

At certain points, the Avengers suffered more negatives due to the excessive destruction caused by the Hulk. However, the fact that he has become intelligent enough to understand this does diminish some of his intriguing qualities. Unfortunately, this development seems to have swallowed up Bruce Banner in the process. Although Banner can now transform back into a human whenever he desires, it’s illogical when he could still be as intelligent as Hulk. The dual nature of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in the character is lost, which is unfortunate because Banner, on his own, could offer something entirely different from Hulk. Moreover, seeing the character perpetually as Hulk lacks the uniqueness that comes with his transition between the two personas.

Marvel Can’t Go Back With This Character

It's Impossible For Marvel To Fix The Incredible Hulk

Despite the humor brought by Hulk’s comedic moments and the relatable human side of his character, fans often feel that the Hulk isn’t fully realizing his potential in recent portrayals. Reintroducing some of his original traits could enhance his appeal, as he initially provided amusing moments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe before his character development became too excessive. However, it appears challenging for Marvel to return Hulk to this earlier stage. Viewers would eagerly expect when Banner transforms into Hulk, the extent of destruction he might cause, and who could possibly stop him. On the other hand, the ease with which he now switches between human and Hulk forms diminishes the excitement, as it removes the uncertainty and tension associated with his transformations.

Marvel struggles to portray Hulk as the terrifying, destructive force he once was due to his demonstrated understanding and control over his anger. However, Hulk’s humor has become a beloved aspect in the movies, causing fans to expect it whenever he appears. This presents a challenge for Marvel, as they must maintain this comedic element, which diminishes the depth and power of the character, transforming a formidable figure into an ordinary one.

There’s been a longstanding desire among fans for a solo Hulk film starring Ruffalo, but discussions about this have dwindled in recent times due to the character not being as captivating anymore. Without the internal conflict, rage, and beastly aspects that make Hulk unique, he appears ordinary, which is far from suitable for such a destructive entity. However, Hulk now finds himself at a stage where he offers little more than witty remarks, posing a significant challenge to Marvel: finding ways to bring the character back to his peak, where he can deliver more substance.

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2024-12-06 20:04