10 Hulk Moments We Wish We Could Erase

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Over the course of the Hulk’s journey in Marvel films, we find ourselves regretting certain events involving him looking back. As one of the pioneering heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Hulk has demonstrated his significance within this franchise. Ever since his debut, the Hulk has experienced a transformative character development, mirroring the growth of the series as a whole, ultimately solidifying his status as a beloved character within the MCU.

To be frank, my personal experience with the Hulk’s portrayals within the Marvel Cinematic Universe hasn’t been entirely satisfying. In retrospect, certain scenes from Hulk’s filmography have left me feeling rather disappointed, shaping a perception that these moments were less than ideal. Some were tantalizing hints that never fully materialized, while others simply haven’t held up over time, but I can’t help but wish some of the following instances featuring the Hulk were omitted entirely from the movies.

10. The Incredible Hulk’s Opening Montage

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

In 2008, the initial chapter of the Hulk’s story within the Marvel Cinematic Universe was presented in the film titled The Incredible Hulk. This is the only standalone movie about him so far in the franchise. Instead of exploring his commonly known origin tale in detail, the movie briefly summarized it through a montage during the opening credits. Reflecting on this now, it appears that this approach might not have been ideal for developing the Hulk’s character.

Initially, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) gave a fleeting glimpse into Hulk’s origin story, but not a full account. This brief hint has led to an ongoing struggle for the MCU to develop Hulk as a standalone character, partly due to rights complications. Consequently, both his origins and development have left fans feeling that he is not given much significance among other MCU heroes. Not only was this approach unsatisfactory in detailing his background, but it also provided an annoyingly vague introduction that could have been omitted from the movie altogether.

9. Hulk Takes A Selfie With Some Fans

Avengers: Endgame (2019)

Despite the Hulk playing a significant role in many memorable Avengers events, there have been instances where he was more like comic relief. However, the character’s position within the franchise underwent a change following his appearance in Avengers: Endgame, as this film brought about the merging of his two personalities into one being that possessed the physical power and strength of Hulk, along with Bruce Banner’s intellect. Not long after his debut, Smart Hulk could be seen enjoying his fame, even posing for selfies with young admirers in public settings.

While some fans might find it among Hulk’s amusing Marvel Cinematic Universe moments, revisiting Hulk’s selfie scene today reveals a rather pointless and contrived event that feels as overwhelmingly obvious as the Green Goliath himself. This scene doesn’t contribute significantly to Hulk’s character development or the plot of Endgame, and it seems less appealing over time when examining Smart Hulk’s initial appearances.

8. Hulk’s Self-Imposed Exile

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Hulk’s significant presence among the Avengers has been pivotal during the Infinity Saga. Although the MCU hasn’t provided him with a substantial solo narrative, the Hulk’s key moments often occur in Avengers films. An instance of this is his decision to leave Earth and isolate himself at the end of “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” where he departed from Sokovia in a Quinjet, opting not to rejoin his fellow Avengers.

The situation carried a significant impact, yet in hindsight, it was inappropriate. It served as a somewhat loose interpretation of one of Hulk’s most recognized comic book storylines, however, it weakened some of the original narrative’s crucial undertones. Instead of being banished by his teammates, the moment presented an unmistakable instance of how the MCU has neglected to portray Hulk’s intricate role within the Marvel Universe.

7. The Incredible Hulk’s “Betty” Moment

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

The debut of The Incredible Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) could have been a triumphant one, but unfortunately, the film fell short of expectations. Nonetheless, the movie’s final showdown between Hulk and Abomination was mostly successful, offering some depth to the Hulk character that wasn’t tied to Bruce Banner. In what should have been an iconic scene for the Hulk in the MCU, he demonstrated his ability to recognize Betty even while transformed, safeguarding her and uttering her name aloud.

Regrettably, looking back, that incident might not have been ideal. It created an emotional bond between the characters, but later films failed to explore this connection further due to Betty Ross’ absence from the Marvel Cinematic Universe after The Incredible Hulk. This moment could have fostered significant character growth, but instead, it serves as a reminder of the untapped potential in the relationship between Hulk and Betty in the MCU.

6. Gladiator Hulk’s MCU Debut

Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

In some Marvel Cinatic Universe (MCU) Hulk scenes, iconic moments from the comics were accurately translated for the franchise. These instances often provided fulfilling additions to the hero’s narrative or delightful Easter eggs for fans. But upon reconsideration, particularly with regards to the Gladiator Hulk scene in Thor: Ragnarok, it seems that excluding this moment could have improved the movie overall.

In a quick cameo in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Gladiator Hulk was hinted at potentially adapting the Planet Hulk tale from the comics. However, the way Ragnarok portrayed Hulk’s gladiator persona was just a temporary aspect of his overall character development, leading him back to the Avengers group. Initially thrilling, this brief episode now represents a missed opportunity for one of Hulk’s most captivating comic book narratives.

5. The Hulk Becomes Smart Hulk

Avengers: Endgame (2019)

The complex ownership issues surrounding the Hulk character have frequently caused significant moments involving him to be glossed over or ignored in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This oversight was particularly noticeable during “Avengers: Endgame,” where Hulk made his first appearance post-“Infinity War.” In this film, he debuted as Smart Hulk, but the MCU’s portrayal of his transformation was less than satisfactory.

The initial appearance of Smart Hulk was disappointing and seems outdated now. Critics argue that the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) missed an opportunity to delve into Smart Hulk’s transformation, as this development was a significant part of his broader character evolution. Reflecting on Smart Hulk’s debut in the MCU, it appears that the storyline might have been stronger if this event had never occurred.

4. Thor Talking About Hulk’s Genitals

Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Hulk’s tale has mainly been told through his interactions with other heroes, making it understandable that a specific scene from Thor: Ragnarok might now seem outdated for another Avenger. This film presented a strong portrayal of the bond between Hulk and Thor, where Thor engaged with the Hulk without Bruce Banner’s control, leading to several hilarious moments. However, one dialogue exchange in particular could have been omitted.

In a conversation with the Hulk on Sakaar, while the Hulk was relaxing in his enormous tub, Thor is taken aback when his fellow Avenger stands up, revealing himself unexpectedly. Later, Thor talks about the Hulk’s private parts in a somewhat immature manner, continuing until he covers up. In hindsight, this scene makes Thor appear remarkably juvenile for a supposed deity, and perhaps the movie could have been stronger without this particular moment included.

3. Hulk Vs Red Hulk Tease

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

In the much-awaited Marvel Cinematic Universe series, Captain America: Brave New World, we finally saw the arrival of Red Hulk. However, hints about his presence had been dropped earlier, starting from The Incredible Hulk. This film introduced General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, who pursued Bruce Banner worldwide to retrieve his gamma-radiated cells for research purposes. This storyline subtly foreshadowed Ross’ transformation into Red Hulk, laying the groundwork for their eventual clash.

Looking back at the introduction of the Red Hulk in “The Incredible Hulk”, it appears that the film introduced this character prematurely within the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s timeline, as a subsequent encounter between Ross and the Red Hulk, initially teased, did not take place as planned.

2. The Hulk & Black Widow Start An MCU Romance

Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

The film Avengers: Age of Ultron sparked much debate within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) fanbase, as several creative decisions were met with criticism. One contentious decision was the introduction of a romantic relationship between Hulk and Black Widow. Characters Bruce Banner and Natasha Romanoff frequently depicted their blossoming romance through various scenes. The most significant moment occurred during their stay at Clint Barton’s farmstead, which unfortunately doesn’t feel as fresh or appealing today as it did back then.

The part where they confessed their feelings to each other stands out as odd when looked back upon, given that the Marvel Cinematic Universe hardly delved deeper into it afterward. Their romantic involvement was scarcely mentioned again before Black Widow’s demise in Avengers: Endgame, suggesting that it never really took off. Thus, the scenes depicting their growing attraction and emotional bond feel incongruous now, almost as if they were not necessary elements of the storyline at all.

1. The Hulk “Hides” From Thanos

Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

In the start of the climactic final chapter of Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Infinity Saga, “Avengers: Infinity War”, the Hulk could have had a significant part. Instead, he was overpowered by Thanos at the film’s outset, making him absent for the remainder of the movie. The reason given is that his defeat left the Hulk so terrified that he refused to emerge, causing Bruce Banner to assume a slightly altered role in the events that followed.

Reflecting on it now, portraying Hulk as too fearful to reveal himself was a questionable decision. Not only did it contradict his established character traits, but it missed a significant chance for the Hulk to make an impact in a major Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) narrative. Given that the Hulk’s role within the franchise persisted across subsequent films and series, the instance where he chose not to appear in “Avengers: Infinity War” is one that should have been omitted from the MCU.

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2025-04-26 16:42