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by Brian Miller

The Incredible Hulk

The mere memory of Ang Lee’s abysmal 2003 adaptation of THE HULK is enough to send shivers up the spine of most moviegoers. Even the die-hard fans of The Green One were off-put by the terrible story line and pathetic attempt to digitalize the hero. In one foul, over-hyped swoop, the lucrative franchise appeared to have been rendered D.O.A. Despite this original hiccup, word swiftly spread that Edward Norton, that talented driving force behind AMERICAN HISTORY X and THE ILLUSIONIST (among others) had expressed interest in stepping into Bruce Banner's shoes. No doubt his involvement, paired with the unequivocal failure of the 2003 version, qualifies THE INCREDIBLE HULK one of the biggest surprises of 2008.
Like Marvel’s previous smash-hit IRON MAN, HULK spends much of the first act focusing on character development and backstory. In so doing, the audience sees Banner as the reluctant participant in a war he wants no part of. Tracked by military zealot General Thadeus Ross (who helped Banner morph into The Hulk) the reluctant hero hides within the crowded streets of Brazil. Working diligently to discover a cure, he learns to control the beast within. After over 100 days without an incident, Ross’ men discover Banner’s whereabouts.With no idea of the force they're about to face, the team, led by Emil Blonsky (Tim Roth), moves in on the unassuming scientist. After a thrilling BOURNE-like chase, the Hulk emerges for the first time, and the roller coaster begins.

By the point Norton transforms for the first time, the audience has developed a connection with Banner, rendering his digital metamorphosis acceptable. Unlike the cartoonish 2003 version, the 2008 Hulk (within the realm of the film) is considerably more believable. He's a larger-than-life, indestructible force; a creature whose awesome power is a wonder to behold. Though 'the monster' has been created by director Louis Leterrier and his talented technical team, it's Norton’s tortured portrayal that lends credibility to an otherwise ridiculous transformation. When he becomes The Hulk, he loses all conscience thought and personality, and is at the mercy of his unnatural instincts. The fear of unknown carnage is permanently etched into his eyes, and brings a whole new dimension to an already familiar character.

Along with Norton, the cast of THE INCREDIBLE HULK is, in large part, the reason this version thrives. William Hurt continues his streak of dynamic performances (HISTORY OF VIOLENCE, INTO THE WILD, MR. BROOKS) andLiv Tyler continues her summer of resurgence that began with THE STRANGERS. The grossly underrated Tim Roth (RESERVOIR DOGS) is dynamite as the psychotic soldier Blonsky. After witnessing what The Hulk can do, he begs Ross to bestow the same power onto him. The result is his transformation into the evil Abomination, and he begins his CLOVERFIELD-like attack on the city. Soon thereafter, he and The Hulk lock horns, and an epic battle ensues.

Again, as was the case with IRON MAN, this clash of the titans serves as this film’s one obvious weakness.Watchable yet somewhat deflating, it’s an untypical dim moment in an otherwise outstanding feature. Even so, thanks to Norton and company, this rotting franchise has been resoundingly resurrected.

The Hulk: B+

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