There are two recent standalone Hulk movies that primarily revolve around the fictional superhero character created by Marvel Comics. The first one, titled Hulk, was released in 2003 and starred Eric Bana as Bruce Banner/Hulk, while the second, titled The Incredible Hulk, came out in 2008 and featured Edward Norton in the same role.
These movies are not part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), as Hulk has also appeared in five MCU movies. Prior to the recent Hulk movies that aired after the millennium, the comic book character was featured in several TV movies released in the ’70s and ’80s, starring Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner (Bruce Banner) and Lou Ferrigno as the Hulk. All of these movies have added to the character’s enduring legacy.
How Many Hulk Movies Are There?
There are about 19 Hulk movies that have been created that cut across television, the big screen, and animation. Six television movies about the fictional character were released between the 1970s and 1980s before two standalone movies were released in the 2000s.
In the 2010s, five movies from the Marvel Cinematic Universe featured the comic book character. Between the 2000s and 2010s, the Hulk was featured in several animated movies.
Old Hulk Movies
The older Hulk movies primarily consisted of TV movies and a series that aired from the late 1970s to the late 1980s. These early adaptations introduced audiences to the character of Bruce Banner and his transformative alter ego, the Hulk. They laid the foundation for the character’s transformation in various media and contributed to the enduring popularity of the Hulk as a beloved Marvel Comics character.
1. The Incredible Hulk (1977): The first Hulk movie was the pilot for the subsequent TV series. It starred Bill Bixby as Dr. David Banner (the TV series version of Bruce Banner) and Lou Ferrigno as the Hulk. The movie explored Banner’s efforts to control his transformation into the Hulk and his quest to find a cure for his condition.
2. The Return of the Incredible Hulk (1977): As Banner struggles to find a cure for his condition, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous plot involving espionage and criminals. He is compelled to use his scientific expertise and his alter ego’s incredible strength to navigate the difficult situations he encounters.
3. The Incredible Hulk: Death in the Family (1977): Banner becomes involved in a family facing various challenges and dangers. His desire to help those in need compels him to intervene using the Hulk’s incredible strength when necessary.
4. The Incredible Hulk: Married (1978): Banner marries a woman named Carolyn Dean in the film. However, their happiness is short-lived when Banner is forced to transform into the Hulk and flee.
5. The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988): In this installment, Dr. David Banner believes that he has found a potential cure for his condition. However, he is delayed by the inexplicable arrival of ancient Viking warriors and a powerful mystical hammer. The movie is notable for introducing another iconic Marvel character, Thor, into the live-action television universe.
6. The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989): Here, Banner finds himself in a legal predicament as he is wrongfully accused of a crime and put on trial. This TV movie introduces the Marvel character Daredevil into the live-action television universe.
New Hulk Movies
Two standalone Movies: Hulk (2003) and The Incredible Hulk (2008), were released before the character became a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While the two movies have different actors and are distinct in style and tone, they share the same general premise.
Generally, the two movies offer different interpretations of the Hulk character. The first one provided an introspective and character-driven approach, while the latter aligned more with the action-packed style typical of the MCU.
1. Hulk (2003): This film was directed by Ang Lee and stars Eric Bana as Dr. Bruce Banner. The story follows Banner, a scientist who, after a gamma radiation accident, transforms into the Hulk whenever he experiences intense anger or stress. Banner is haunted by his traumatic past, including his mother’s mysterious death and his strained relationship with his father, who was involved in gamma radiation research. Hulk explores the consequences of scientific experimentation and delves into Banner’s past – the emotional struggles tied to his transformation into the Hulk.
2. The Incredible Hulk (2008): This movie was directed by Louis Leterrier and featured Edward Norton as Dr. Bruce Banner. The story follows Banner as he fights to find a cure for transforming into the Hulk. He is also on the run, trying to evade capture by the military, who are interested in harnessing Hulk’s power for their purposes. While not technically part of the MCU, this installment in the Hulk movie series is considered part of the MCU canon and contributed to the development of the character within that shared cinematic universe.
MCU Hulk Movies
Mark Ruffalo portrays Dr. Bruce Banner/The Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films. He made his debut appearance in “The Avengers” (2012), where he is a brilliant scientist who transforms into the immensely powerful and uncontrollable Hulk when he becomes overwhelmed or angered. Throughout the MCU, the Hulk’s role extends beyond his incredible strength and abilities; it delves into his alter ego’s complex and often tumultuous psychology.
The Hulk’s journey in the MCU also showcases his evolution from a destructive force to a character with intelligence and humor. His presence, whether as a rampaging giant or the more refined Professor Hulk in “Avengers: Endgame,” contributes significantly to the MCU’s ensemble dynamics and overarching narrative.
1. The Avengers (2012): The plot of this film revolves around Loki’s invasion of Earth using the Tesseract. This film also marks the Hulk’s MCU debut, with Dr. Bruce Banner recruited by Nick Fury to join the Avengers. Banner’s transformation into the Hulk becomes a critical asset during the battle of New York City, where he plays a crucial role in combating Loki’s forces. The Hulk’s incredible strength and resilience make him a formidable force, and his moments of rampage and heroism set the stage for his continued presence in the MCU.
2. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015): Avengers: Age of Ultron explores Bruce Banner’s fears and vulnerabilities surrounding his alter ego, the Hulk. While the plot centers on the creation of the villainous Ultron, Banner’s inner turmoil takes center stage. The Hulk’s role is essential, both as a force of destruction and a character struggling with his own existence. Banner’s complex relationship with Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow) adds emotional depth to the story as he grapples with the consequences of his transformations.
3. Thor: Ragnarok (2017): In Thor: Ragnarok, the Hulk is featured on the planet Sakaar as a gladiator for two years. The plot revolves around Thor’s quest to stop the apocalyptic event of Ragnarok. The Hulk’s presence provides humor and action, and his interactions with Thor showcase a more developed personality, distinct from Banner’s. The film explores the Hulk’s character and the idea that he is more than just a destructive force.
4. Avengers: Infinity War (2018): While the Hulk has a significant early appearance in Avengers: Infinity War, he refuses to transform for most of the film. Hulk’s internal struggle with Banner and the trauma he experienced in previous battles are central to his role. The Hulk’s absence creates a unique character arc that contrasts with his earlier roles as a powerhouse.
5. Avengers: Endgame (2019): A new twist to the Hulk is seen in this film as Banner merges his intelligence with the Hulk’s physical form, becoming Professor Hulk. This version is crucial to the team’s mission to reverse Thanos’ snap. The Hulk’s evolution from a destructive force to a character with a balance of strength and intellect is a significant development in the film, contributing to the MCU’s climactic conclusion.
Hulk Animated Movies
There are several animated movies featuring the Hulk. These animated films explore different aspects of the Hulk’s character and offer a range of stories and adventures featuring his interactions with other Marvel characters.
1. Ultimate Avengers (2006): In Ultimate Avengers, the Hulk is one of the critical members of the Avengers team assembled to combat a looming threat. The film delves into the dynamic between the Hulk and the other Avengers, including Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, and more.
2. Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of the Panther (2006): Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of the Panther continues the story as the sequel to Ultimate Avengers. It also introduces the character of Black Panther into the mix. The Hulk’s role in this sequel, like in the first film, showcases his incredible strength and interactions with the rest of the team.
3. Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008): While not a Hulk-centric film, the Hulk plays a role in this animated movie. It is set in a future where the original Avengers have retired or been defeated. The children of the Avengers, including the son of Bruce Banner (Hulk), must step up to save the world from Ultron.
4. Hulk vs. (2009): Hulk vs. is a two-part animated film featuring the Hulk. The first part, “Hulk vs. Thor,” sees the Hulk facing off against the God of Thunder, Thor. The second part, “Hulk vs. Wolverine,” pits the Hulk against the mutant Wolverine. These action-packed films showcase epic battles between the Hulk and these iconic Marvel characters.
5. Planet Hulk (2010): Planet Hulk is based on the popular comic storyline of the same name. In this animated film, the Hulk is exiled from Earth by the Illuminati and crash-lands on the alien planet Sakaar. There, he is forced to become a gladiator, ultimately leading a rebellion against the planet’s tyrannical ruler. This movie explores the Hulk’s resilience and leadership qualities.
6. Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell (2016): This animated Halloween special features the Hulk teaming up with Doctor Strange. They must work together to stop the villain Nightmare from taking over the dream world and unleashing chaos on Earth. The film combines elements of horror and supernatural adventure.
Hulk Movies List
1. The Incredible Hulk (1977)
2. The Return of the Incredible Hulk (1977)
3. The Incredible Hulk: Death in the Family (1977)
4. The Incredible Hulk: Married (1978)
5. The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988)
6. The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989)
7. Hulk (2003)
8. The Incredible Hulk (2008)
9. The Avengers (2012)
10. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
11. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
12. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
13. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
14. Ultimate Avengers (2006)
15. Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of the Panther (2006)
16. Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008)
17. Hulk vs. (2009)
18. Planet Hulk (2010)
19. Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell (2016)
How Many Incredible Hulk Movies Are There?
Of the 19 Hulk movies (TV film, motion picture, and animation) that have been released since the 1970s, there are 7 movies that have the title Incredible Hulk. They are The Incredible Hulk (1977), The Return of the Incredible Hulk (1977), The Incredible Hulk: Death in the Family (1977), The Incredible Hulk: Married (1978), The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988), The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989), and The Incredible Hulk (2008).
However, there is no difference between these movies and the others as “Hulk” is the character’s name, while “The Incredible Hulk” is used mainly as a title for stories and adaptations that focus on the character’s adventures. The term “incredible” in the title emphasizes the extraordinary nature of the Hulk’s abilities and adventures.
The Incredible Hulk Movies in Order
- The Incredible Hulk (1977)
- The Return of the Incredible Hulk (1977)
- The Incredible Hulk: Death in the Family (1977)
- The Incredible Hulk: Married (1978)
- The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988)
- The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
Must You Watch Hulk Movies in Order?
The viewing order for the Hulk movies depends on your preference. Watching the Hulk movies within the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a specific order can give you a chronological understanding of the character’s journey. However, when looking at the larger picture of all the Hulk movies, you do not need to watch them in a specific order to enjoy them. This is because many of them are standalone stories or separate adaptations.
Where Can I Watch the Hulk Movies?
Hulk movies can be streamed or purchased online, but the availability may vary by region. Some general ways to watch Hulk movies include:
1. Streaming Services: Check popular streaming platforms like Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video. Since the Hulk is a Marvel character, some of his movies may be available on Disney+, especially those within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Additionally, Amazon Prime Video often offers movies for rent or purchase.
2. Digital Purchase: You can purchase or rent Hulk movies on digital platforms like iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies. These platforms typically offer the option to buy or rent movies.
3. Physical Media: You can purchase DVD or Blu-ray copies of Hulk movies from retailers, both online and in physical stores.
4. Cable or Satellite TV: Check your cable or satellite TV provider’s on-demand movie rental options. They may have Hulk movies available for rent.
