Review of The Incredible Hulk (2008) by Diogomendes — 07 Nov 2014

Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) Analysis: The Incredible Hulk (2008).

Hulk… SMAAAAAAAASHES! And he succeeds at it. “The Incredible Hulk” is a live-action movie focused around the iconic character Hulk. After the disappointing Ang Lee’s film, I thought it was right about time they start making a decent solo movie of the green monster and what we got, was a flick entertaining enough to please comic book fanatics and audience in general. The movie is not on its full potential, however, you may find the action pleasing and the actors performances (especially from Edward Norton) very likable.

A cure is in reach for the world's most primal force of fury: THE INCREDIBLE HULK. We find scientist Bruce Banner, living in shadows, scouring the planet for an antidote. But the warmongers who dream of abusing his powers won't leave him alone, nor will his need to be with the only woman he has ever loved, Betty Ross. Upon returning to civilization, our brilliant doctor is ruthlessly pursued by The Abomination -- a nightmarish beast of pure adrenaline and aggression whose powers match The Hulk's own. A fight of comic-book proportions ensues as Banner must call upon the hero within to rescue New York City from total destruction. One scientist must make an agonizing final choice -- accept a peaceful life as Bruce Banner or the creature he could permanently become: THE INCREDIBLE HULK.

Like I said earlier in this review, Edward Norton makes for a convincing and likable lead. He’s one of the reasons as to why this movie works and I’m not afraid to say that he is even better than Eric Bana. He was replaced by Mark Ruffalo – which is a talented actor – due to some problems with the studio itself. Mark Ruffalo is a great Bruce Banner, but he will never surpass the genuine performance that Norton delivered. As for the other cast, their performances are pretty good. Well, I think Liv Tyler’s performance was a little bit stupid but it never looked fake or anything.

Now let’s talk about the action and the special effects. The visuals in this movie are not as realistic as the 2003’s film, which is surely disappointing considering it has passed 5 years since then and the effects haven’t improved. I’m not saying it looks bad, but it’s not what I expected. Hulk looks like a PS2 video game graphic and The Abomination’s design leaves much to be desired. But the action is pretty f*cking great. It’s probably one of the highlights of this movie. Hulk fighting with The Abomination was so cool and exciting, and even the scene where he fights the military proves to be one of the best fight sequence in this movie. But then again, the action was also pretty good in the other movie but the story was mediocre. What do I have to say about this movie?

The story is entertaining enough to carry the movie. It adds a few tweaks here and there, while also putting some references to Marvel Cinematic Universe and comedic relief. Sure, it doesn’t reach Iron Man’s level, but it’s enjoyable.

Final Score to The Incredible Hulk (2008): 7/10. I have nothing much to say about this. It lacks originality and the special effects look a little bit cartoonish, but overall, “The Incredible Hulk” offers pleasant action and an excellent performance from Edward Norton.

Now guys, the next movie… the best one. The Earth’s Mightiest Heroes… finally, onscreen. My next MCU review: Marvel’s The Avengers.