The Hulk

Starring: Eric Bana, Jennifer Connelly, Nick Nolte, Josh Lucas, Sam Elliot
Directed by: Ang Lee
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Comic Book, Fantasy
2003

Times Seen:
Tim: 3

Summary: Bruce Banner (Eric Bana) is involved in a freak accident in which he is exposed to high levels of gamma radiation. Miraculously, he survives. However, something has changed inside of him. When he loses his temper, he turns into huge, nearly indestructible green giant known as The Hulk. Now, his ex-girlfriend Betty Ross (Jennifer Connolley) tries to save him from her father, a general (Sam Elliot) and Banner's father (Nick Nolte).

Review:

Tim: Now, in any tale worth telling, there requires a certain amount of background information that must occur before the story really gets good. This is especially true in superhero movies. Why do most people think X-Men 2: X-Men United was better than the first one? Because the first one spend so much time giving the background info on the heroes. Well, The Hulk suffers from that same fate.

I understand completely when people who hate this movie call it slow, long, and confusing. It is indeed all those things. However, I still really like it. Lots of people won't like it from the outset, because they think the movie will be about the Hulk. They do not understand. The movie isn't about the Hulk, its about Bruce Banner. The Hulk is unlike every other superhero, because his transformation comes almost completely against his will. He is tortured by it. This movie is done really examining Bruce Banner and his relationship with Betty Ross as well as his own past. The Hulk is simply a byproduct of an accident that complicates yet clarifies matters. Those who understand the Hulk will like this movie a whole lot better.

Despite some great camera shots, incredible special effects, and interesting use of comic book features throughout the movie, I do have to admit that this film does not reach the level of an X-Men or Spider-Man film. It is closer to a Daredevil movie. Its good, but its definitely not that good. Perhaps the worst part is near the end with the giant blob of energy (watch the film and you will understand). I mean, what the hell is that? Its ridiculous.

Anyway, ridiculous or not, I do like this film. I like the Hulk and I am a huge comic book nerd. I can't help it. Be careful watching this film. If you're not a diehard comic book fan, you might want to pass it by.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2, X-Men, X2: X-Men United, Daredevil, The Punisher, Fantastic Four