Review of Hulk (2003) by Jeffrey M — 07 Aug 2012

Lee tries to create a purposeful emotional core around an anti-hero that is defined by emotion- and everyone berates it. The editing is inspired, the casting spot-on and the story engaging and with a depth that gives the Hulk an almost moving pathos he deserves.

This is closer to the source than the much celebrated TV series, comparisons shouldn't be drawn there. Universal/Marvel assumed that fans wanted a more direct action movie approach to the character, so in 2008 they had another go.

And it made less money. I'm glad, because it was an inferior film. This 2003 Hulk however doesn't suit the tone of the Avengers, but as a film on its own merits (which, as a rebooted and ignored piece it is) it's a smart and innovative living comic book.

Sure, it's a bit slow to get to the part where he goes green and breaks stuff, but I don't see that establishing a character is a film's weakness. I love this film, even if Hulk is a bit too bright.