Film Review: The Incredible Hulk (2008)

For some reason, The Hulk never had a great film of his very own, prior to this. The older films have not aged well. 2003's Hulk had its moments, but was inundated with style and storytelling choices that made it less palatable. Coming out at the very forefront of Marvel's Phase I wave, The Incredible Hulk follows the Hulk on his next logical step after fleeing the military and hiding out, only to have the past catch up to him again.

The bulk of this story revolves around Bruce Banner's continuing struggle to control his own power, which in turn correlates to his inner struggle with emotions and rage. Inevitably, he loses control a few times, resulting in several scenes of mass carnage. When the Hulk busts loose, he goes on to toss cars and bash buildings with impunity. The rampage in the university campus is probably the coolest scene, as the military pulls out sonic weapons while the Hulk bashes up hum-vees into tiny pieces. It all builds up to a lengthy city battle, where the Hulk clashes with a more monstrous opponent; their battle rips up the streets and causes so much carnage, it's incredible.

While there is definitely enough action to satiate action fans, the film evens itself out by occasionally focusing on the characters as they go on the run and connect the dots. Bruce Banner proves to be a compelling character that we can empathize with and root for; he's quite the sight when he hulks out and smashes things, but it's also touching to watch him temper the beast and try to set things right. His relationship with Betty is also touching, and the two form a very nice Beauty and the Beast type of relationship. All the bad guys are pretty one-dimensional. The plot breezes through several exotic locations before settling on the finale; it's not necessarily a great story, but the characters and action keep it fresh.

This film boasts splendid, colorful photography and solid editing. Acting seemed great at the time, for the cast is very notable. Edward Norton is a guy I enjoy watching; he looks rather scrawny when compared to other Hulk actors, but his performance isn't too terrible. I've always had a soft spot for Liv Tyler and William Hurt. Tim Roth is appropriately mean-spirited in his role. Writing is generally okay. This production uses good-looking locales, sets, props, and costumes. Special effects seemed really cool at the time, but haven't all aged well. Music is okay.

The Incredible Hulk is a perfectly enjoyable romp, but with quality characterization and a slick style that makes it one of the best by far.

4/5 (Entertainment: Good | Story: Pretty Good | Film: Pretty Good)