The Incredible Hulk - Film Review

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The Incredible Hulk is a 2008 superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. The movie was directed by Louis Leterrier and produced by Marvel Studios. The film stars Edward Norton as Dr. Bruce Banner, Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, and Tim Roth as Emil Blonsky/The Abomination.

The plot of The Incredible Hulk follows the story of Bruce Banner (Norton), a brilliant scientist who is on the run from the U.S. government. Banner's past experiments with gamma radiation have resulted in him being transformed into a massive green creature with incredible strength and durability, known as the Hulk. The government sees the Hulk as a threat to national security and is determined to capture him, while Banner is desperately searching for a cure for his condition.

The movie opens with Banner hiding out in Brazil, working at a bottling factory and practicing meditation to keep his anger in check. However, when an accident at the factory exposes his identity, Banner is forced to flee to the United States. He reconnects with his former girlfriend, Betty Ross (Tyler), who is now working for her father, General Thaddeus Ross (William Hurt), the man leading the government's hunt for the Hulk.

As Banner continues his research into a cure for his condition, he discovers that the only known sample of the gamma radiation that caused his transformation is in the hands of General Ross's rival, Emil Blonsky (Roth). Blonsky, a British special forces soldier, becomes obsessed with obtaining the power of the Hulk and convinces Ross to allow him to be injected with an experimental serum that enhances his physical abilities.

Meanwhile, Banner discovers that his former colleague, Dr. Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson), may hold the key to a cure for his condition. Sterns has been experimenting with Banner's blood and believes he can use it to cure him. However, their plans are disrupted when Blonsky, now transformed into a monstrous creature called the Abomination, goes on a rampage through Harlem.

Banner, realizing that the only way to stop the Abomination is to transform into the Hulk, battles his monstrous counterpart in a brutal and destructive final battle. In the end, Banner is able to defeat the Abomination and save New York City from further destruction. However, he is forced to flee once again, knowing that the government will continue to pursue him.

The Incredible Hulk is a departure from the previous Hulk movie, which was directed by Ang Lee and had a more introspective and art-house feel. The 2008 film is a more straightforward superhero movie, with plenty of action, special effects, and blockbuster spectacle.

One of the strengths of The Incredible Hulk is Edward Norton's performance as Bruce Banner. Norton brings a sense of intelligence and intensity to the character, capturing the inner turmoil and conflict that Bruce experiences as he tries to control his transformations into the Hulk. Norton's portrayal of the character is one of the highlights of the movie, and it's a shame that he did not return for future films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Liv Tyler is also excellent as Betty Ross, providing a warm and compassionate presence that complements Norton's performance. Tim Roth is suitably menacing as Emil Blonsky, a soldier who becomes obsessed with obtaining the power of the Hulk.

The film's action sequences are also impressive, with plenty of thrilling set pieces and special effects. The final battle between the Hulk and the Abomination is particularly memorable, with some stunning visuals and intense action.

The movie's weaknesses, however, are also worth noting. While Norton's performance is strong, the script does not always give him much to work with. The film's pacing can also feel a bit uneven at times, with some scenes dragging on too long and others feeling rushed.

In addition, the movie does not do enough to differentiate itself from other superhero movies. While the Hulk is a unique and interesting character, the film's plot and themes feel familiar and formulaic. It's not a bad movie by any means, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of other films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Despite these flaws, The Incredible Hulk is an entertaining and well-made superhero movie that deserves more recognition than it often receives. Edward Norton's performance as Bruce Banner is excellent, and the film's action sequences are impressive. While it may not be as memorable or ground-breaking as some of the other films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it's still worth watching for fans of the genre.

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