Do you love the Hulk and miss the days when Eric Bana or Edward Norton carried the movie with the green giant? Do you dream of seeing him again in a solo Marvel movie? Be patient because it won’t happen right away!
Since July 23, 2008, Bruce Banner, aka the Hulk, has not appeared in a film dedicated entirely to him. The latest is The Incredible Hulk, an integral part of the MCU whose second episode, this featurette, features Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark and was carried by Edward Norton.
By the way, what does Marvel mean?
Universal’s fault
At the time, the film was made possible thanks to the partnership between Marvel Studios (producers) and Universal Pictures (distributor). That’s because Universal is the studio that has owned the film and television rights to the character since the late 1990s.
“The Incredible Hulk”
Two years later, producer Kevin Feige, Marvel’s chief thinker, announced his parting ways with Norton: “Our decision wasn’t really based on financial considerations, but on the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and spirit of working with our talented cast. The Avengers requires actors who are happy to work (…).”
Marvel and Universal are parting ways. And if Marvel can afford it, it’s because they own the rights to Hulk appearing alongside other heroes. Thanks to this, without going through Universal, the angry green giant was able to appear in four Avengers films, in Thor: Ragnarok, as he is with the Asgardian god, and in a cameo in Captain Marvel’s Iron Man 3. and Shang-Chi.
What about She-Hulk?
“Thor: Ragnarok”
We’re in the same situation as Thor: Ragnarok, with Jennifer Walters / She-Hulk (played by Tatiana Maslany) really being the protagonist of the series, and Bruce Banner being a very secondary superhero mentor. He is now played by Mark Ruffalo, who is the first actor to portray him as both a human and the Hulk on set.
As of now, he has not been announced to return for any upcoming Marvel films, but could appear again in Avengers 5 and Avengers: Secret Wars, which are expected to hit theaters in 2025 and 2027.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
