It’s been hard for me to like the Hulk. Ever since the Ang Lee film, I’ve never been able to see the character in any light other than the abomination that was that film. I have the same problem with Catwoman ever since the Halle Berry movie of the same name.
But after watching Planet Hulk, the animated film based on the 2006 comic book series, I have found new appreciation for this mean green creature. Exiled from Earth by Iron Man and others after a series of “anger management” issues, the Hulk destroys the inside of the ship he’s on, which throws him off-course.
He crashes on a planet that makes him a slave/warrior for them. Will Hulk take everyone out and seek revenge on those who sent him here? Or will he find peace, love, and understanding, and finally Zen out?
Along with a compelling storyline, Planet Hulk presents the Hulk as more than a one-note character who thrashes, smashes, and trashes everything. Instead, the story enables him to develop a sense of humanity for those around him. The big green guy shows that he’s not all muscle, but has a heart as well (which I realize is also a muscle, but you know what I mean).
Lots of special features accompany this Blu-ray set, including a Digital Copy of the film. Not only do you get the beautifully animated feature, but also…
A Whole World of Hurt: The Making of Planet Hulk
Let the Smashing Commence! The Saga of Planet Hulk
Audio Commentary by Supervising Producer Joshua Fine and Screenwriter Greg Johnson
Audio Commentary by Director Sam Liu, Character Designer Philip Bourassa and Key Background Painter Steve Nicodemus
Opening Sequence – Thor: Tales of Asgard
Wolverine and X-Men – “Wolverine vs. Hulk” Episode
Spider-Woman: Agent of S.W.O.R.D. Motion Comic
“Watch Your Step” Spider-Woman Music Video
“Rise Up” Astonishing X-Men Music Video
If you have also become disenchanted by the Hulk thanks to recent film versions of his story, I recommend Planet Hulk. It’s a refreshing look at the classic Marvel character, and it may just show you that there’s more to Hulk than meets the eye (no, wait, that’s the Transformers). It’s worth a look!