Resetting the Hulk: MCU's Best Excuse for Transformation
Is the MCU gearing up for a Hulk reset following his transformation in Avengers: Endgame? Examining the Hulk's journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it appears the franchise has cleverly laid the groundwork to revert the character back to his more familiar, smashing self, especially after the introduction of Red Hulk in Captain America: Brave New World.
The Hulk's narrative within the MCU is intricate, largely because pivotal moments often occur within crossover films, balancing his storyline with numerous other heroes. Consequently, key events in the Hulk's arc sometimes take a backseat or happen off-screen. The Smart Hulk transformation, revealed in Avengers: Endgame, occurred off-screen and has divided audiences. The franchise now has a perfect opportunity to justify the character's return to his classic form, potentially enriching his future MCU appearances.
The Smart Hulk Era and Calls for a Hulk Reset
Since 2012's The Avengers, Mark Ruffalo's Hulk has been a mainstay in the MCU. The reveal of Smart Hulk in Avengers: Endgame, where Bruce Banner merged his intellect with the Hulk's strength, surprised many, despite its comic book origins. This transformation followed the Hulk's refusal to emerge in Avengers: Infinity War after his defeat by Thanos.
This decision resolved the conflict between Bruce Banner and the Hulk, mirroring the Professor Hulk storyline in the comics. However, the Smart Hulk storyline has faced criticism for marginalizing the Hulk. With Banner in control, the Hulk's presence diminished, essentially removing a core character dynamic. This also offered a resolution to the Banner/Hulk conflict that felt like repression rather than cooperation.
Captain America: Brave New World and the Red Hulk Factor
Captain America: Brave New World introduces Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross as the Red Hulk, creating a significant stressor for Bruce Banner and potentially triggering a Hulk reset. Before becoming President and Red Hulk, Ross was the Hulk's primary adversary in The Incredible Hulk and an antagonist in Captain America: Civil War, championing the Sokovia Accords.
While Banner might have forgiven Ross, it's unlikely the Hulk has forgotten their past encounters. Ross's transformation into the Red Hulk provides an ideal catalyst for the classic Hulk to resurface. The idea of others becoming Hulks without his knowledge could overwhelm Banner's controlled Smart Hulk persona.
Given the potential chaos within Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, where the Hulk may appear, the Smart Hulk's meditative approach might crumble under immense pressure. This creates the perfect opportunity for the classic Hulk to reemerge in response to overwhelming tension.
Why a Hulk Reset Benefits the MCU
The Smart Hulk storyline, while interesting, risks stagnating the character. The tension between Bruce Banner and the Hulk is a core element of the character's appeal. Removing this dynamic undermines what makes the Hulk compelling. The Professor Hulk storyline in the comics was a temporary change, suggesting this approach works best as a brief deviation, not a permanent state.
The MCU iteration has lasted over half a decade, making a Hulk reset a logical step. With Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars poised to reshape the MCU, reverting to the classic Hulk form seems timely, especially given the setup in Captain America: Brave New World. Only time will reveal the Hulk's future in the MCU.
In conclusion, the MCU appears to be strategically positioning itself for a Hulk reset. The introduction of Red Hulk in Captain America: Brave New World, combined with the potential chaos in upcoming Avengers films, provides a compelling narrative justification for reverting the Hulk back to his iconic, smashing self. Whether this transformation occurs remains to be seen, but the stage is certainly set for a dramatic shift in the Hulk's MCU journey.