Hulk's popularity on Earth allowed Bruce Banner to recognize and appreciate the positive qualities of the Hulk persona, leading to a reconciliation between his alter ego and his human form.
The Hulk is one of the MCU's most enduring and beloved heroes, but several intriguing theories have emerged that challenge traditional perspectives on the character.
There may be many Hulk stories the MCU needs to finish, but he has also already seen a huge amount of narrative development within the franchise. Along the way, theories have emerged about Hulk that have far-reaching and potentially groundbreaking ramifications for the character himself and his story in the MCU. These theories draw on evidence from within the movies themselves, calculating likely or plausible events or outcomes that completely transform his character. With that in mind, here are 10 Hulk theories that completely change the MCU’s most complex Avenger:
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Hulk's Journey Through Grief and Sacrifice Could Be Explored in a Multi-Film Saga
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Hulk's Transformation Could Be Driven by a Real-World Connection to a Character in the MCU
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Hulk's Past Could Be Unraveled Through a Series of Pre-Avengers Films
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The MCU Could Explore the Ethical and Moral Implications of Hulk's Hulk
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Hulk Could Have a Complex Relationship with Iron Man and Thor
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Hulk Could Become a Villain in the MCU, Leading to a Larger Story
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Hulk's Journey Could Be Inspired by a Classic Western Story
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Hulk Could Have a Major Impact on the MCU's Multiverse
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Theories Suggest Hulk's Hulk Could Have a Negative Impact on the MCU
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Hulk's Story Could Be Wrapped Up in a Single, Epic Film
10 One Hulk Theory Ties Two Timelines Together
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Hulk has appeared in several movies, leaving a significant mark on the franchise. Notably, his tenure within the MCU saw him exploring Sakaar, a planet that played a crucial role in his story. With his departure after Avengers: Age of Ultron, he remained absent until the release of Infinity War. During this time, he discovered that his beloved homeland had developed a taste for ice cream, prompting a theory that this was the catalyst for his global fame. The revelation of Hulk's popularity on Earth triggered a fascinating concept that challenged the traditional notion that he was disliked by all.
A deleted scene from The Incredible Hulk showed the events referenced in The Avengers, where Bruce Banner explained that he survived a suicide attempt in the same location that Captain America was discovered. This scene hinted that Hulk would be the one to find Banner, but this is not how Captain America is actually found in the MCU. This prompted the theory that The Incredible Hulk does not take place in the MCU's main timeline and instead exists in an alternate reality.
The ending of Thor: Ragnarok includes a minor moment that has formed the basis of an interesting Hulk theory. Although Thor and Valkyrie plead with him to come out when he finally emerges, the theory suggests that friendship is not Hulk's ultimate weakness. Instead, the simple appeal from those he considers friends is enough to summon the Hulk, providing ample evidence to support the theory.
At the beginning of Avengers: Infinity War, Hulk engages in a fist fight with Thanos, and is shockingly defeated. One clever theory examines exactly how Thanos was able to physically best the Hulk, and it makes an alarming amount of sense. The theory claims that Thanos' strikes are all aimed at the neck and the head, not intended to injure but simply to stun, because Thanos was aware that stalling Hulk's anger would sap his strength. Though it's unconfirmed, it certainly makes sense, and explains away an apparent plot hole in the process.
Avengers: Age of Ultron ends with Hulk fleeing Earth, eventually finding himself on Sakaar due to Wanda Maximoff's implanted vision. This theory suggests that Hulk's rampage earlier in the movie was fueled by his mistrust of his fellow Avengers, who he perceived as only seeking his strength rather than treating him with respect. The memory of this vision, implanted by Wanda Maximoff, is believed to have triggered Hulk's desire to escape and seek a life where he could be valued and trusted.
Of all the deceased MCU characters, many are deeply missed by fellow Avengers and audiences alike. Black Widow stands among them, and despite her possession of the Time Stone, the other Avengers did not attempt to bring her back. There's a theory that Hulk knew not to try to bring Natasha back because he encountered her in the Soul World when he used one of his own. As other characters are shown interacting with the person they love the most, it makes sense that Hulk would see Natasha upon utilizing the Infinity Stones.
- Hulk Took Control Because Banner Couldn't Give Over Control On SakaarIn Thor: Ragnarok, Hulk emerged as the dominant force and Banner was noticeably absent throughout when Thor first encountered him on Sakaar. Some theories suggest that this stemmed from Banner going through a crisis after the events of Age of Ultron, where his heightened emotional state led to relinquishing all control to Hulk. Despite Hulk's calmness, Banner did not regain his composure until his friend intervened, making the theory hold considerable weight.
Avengers: Endgame introduced Smart Hulk, suggesting that Bruce Banner's intelligence and Hulk's immense raw power allowed him to combine their minds and create a formidable being. However, despite retaining Hulk's formidable strength, Banner displayed minimal involvement in combat, with a theory suggesting that he had never fully mastered fighting techniques. This theory explained why Banner's presence in Hulk's body left him clueless regarding effective combat strategies.
The Incredible Hulk
PG-13
Release Date June 13, 2008 Director Louis Leterrier Cast Edward Norton , Liv Tyler , Tim Roth , William Hurt , Tim Blake Nelson , Ty Burrell , Lou Ferrigno Runtime 112 minutes Writers Zak Penn
1 The story of the Incredible Hulk revolves around the complex and unexpected romance between Hulk and Black Widow, which blossoms amidst the chaos and emotional turmoil of the Avengers: Age of Ultron. Their bond, marked by tender moments and the added side effect of Natasha's ability to calm Hulk and bring Banner back to life, raises questions about Natasha's motives and the true nature of their relationship. Some theories suggest that Natasha's intentions may have been driven by a cynical desire to manipulate men, leading to the dark and compelling conclusion of the film.
Key Release Dates
Deadpool 3: 2024-07-26 Captain America: Brave New World: 2025-02-14 Marvel's Fantastic Four: 2025-05-02 Marvel's Thunderbolts: 2025-07-25 Blade (2025): 2025-11-07 Avengers: The Kang Dynasty: 2026-05-01 Avengers: Secret Wars: 2027-05-07