2025’s major Marvel event, titled “Imperial,” is penned by the prodigious writer Jonathan Hickman and illustrated by Federico Vicentini, Iban Coello, and Federico Blee. The captivating first issue of “Imperial” presents a cosmic murder mystery unfolding against the backdrop of alien Marvel. The narrative opens as the Hulk, She-Hulk, and Brawn embark on a quest to Nevo Sakaar, following the mysterious death of Hulk’s son Hiro-Kala. However, it appears that Hiro-Kala is not the only one meeting an untimely end, as rulers across the universe are falling at an alarming rate. Star-Lord and Nova become embroiled due to Star-Lord’s sister being threatened, while the Hulks attend a gathering of galactic powers in search of answers regarding this global conspiracy. A cosmic whodunit set within the expansive Marvel Universe featuring the Hulk as the central character by Jonathan Hickman is an extraordinary prospect. “Imperial” has already proven itself to be compelling, and fans can expect things to get progressively more exciting for cosmic Marvel. The first issue also unveils a shocking secret about the Hulk that will leave readers astonished.
During a conversation with Emperor J’Son, Star-Lord’s father, the Hulk discloses his deepest regret – a parental failure towards his Sakaarian children, particularly Hiro-Kala. The Hulk’s response to the alien monarch reveals that his son harbors strong resentment towards him. In the Hulk’s own reflection, this is his most significant flaw. This insight into the Hulk’s psyche, though not unusual given his complex nature, comes as a bit of a shock, especially considering the Hulk’s tumultuous existence.
The Hulk’s Failures Are Nothing Compared to His Torment
Bruce Banner’s life hasn’t been an easy walk in the park; that’s putting it mildly. Growing up, he was subjected to physical abuse by his alcoholic father who believed him to be a mutant because of his intellectual prowess. He also had to witness his mother endure similar mistreatment. Tragically, his father murdered his mother, and in turn, Banner avenged her death at his grave. These events set the stage for the tumultuous path that followed.
The detonation of the gamma bomb he himself created, while saving Rick Jones, transformed Banner into the Hulk, a destructive force whose actions were sometimes beneficial, as he clashed with both the US military and fellow superheroes who would have otherwise been allies. The Hulk’s rampages claimed almost every person close to him. Rick Jones lost everything numerous times due to his association with the Hulk. His wife Betty died and was resurrected, only to become a gamma mutate. Her father suffered a similar fate. Jarella and Caiera the Oldstrong were also casualties in this tragic tale. The Hulk’s life has been a devastating trail of destruction, whether intentional or not. A closer examination reveals that the Hulk’s life is essentially a chronicle of sins.
The profound bond between Caiera and the Hulk was one of his most significant sorrows, as they developed a deep affection during their alliance to overthrow the Red King and liberate Sakaar. Upon discovering her pregnancy, tragedy struck when Caiera was believed to have perished in the cataclysm of Sakaar. In an attempt to protect their unborn children, she employed her powers to cocoon them for survival, resulting in Skaar and Hiro-Kala.
In a fit of rage over the Illuminati, who he perceived as responsible for the unfolding events, the Hulk left his sons on a barren planet. Years later, Skaar made his way to Earth, where he confronted his father. Meanwhile, Hiro-Kala was enslaved and slowly developed his powers under duress. Despite this, the Hulk never inquired about his son’s well-being. Eventually escaping captivity, Hiro-Kala aided his people’s survival and even established Nevo Sakaar for them, all without his father’s assistance.
Given these circumstances, it is not surprising that the Hulk’s neglect of his children has become his most significant transgression. By abandoning his sons in anger, he denied them a life worth living. The Hulk understands his monstrous nature and accepts this as his truth.
The Hulk Is About to Smash Someone
As a film enthusiast, I’ve often pondered over the character of the Hulk. Regretfully, he was absent in the lives of his children, something he acknowledges deeply. Now, it’s too late for amends, and the weight of his lost opportunities gnaws at him. His anger is palpable, not just the usual Hulk rage, but a self-directed fury born from his shortcomings. He yearns for explanations, for retribution, for destruction – to let out the pent-up frustration that’s been building inside him. This isn’t your typical Hulk anger; it’s a seething rage fueled by self-loathing and regret.
As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I found some intriguing revelations in the climax of Imperial #1. The story concludes with the disclosure that the deadly toxin was concocted by the Kree/Skrull Empire and surreptitiously administered to the Wakandans. A Wakandan, it seems, has been systematically eliminating galactic monarchs. Yet, I can’t help but feel there are hidden layers to this plot, and whoever is responsible for this chaos should beware! The Worldbreaker Hulk is en route.
Imperial #1 is on sale now.
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2025-06-09 19:47