Rumor: Wolverine vs. Hulk Movie in Development

Hugh Jackman first expressed interest in the crossover back in 2014

By Jonas Reichel on

Rumors have been circulating for years, but now it seems to be getting really serious: Marvel Studios is said to be actively working on the development of a movie in which Hulk and Wolverine clash! This is reported by the well-known scooper MyTimeToShineHello, who has proven himself to be a reliable source on several occasions.

The idea of an epic duel between the Hulk and Wolverine has its roots deep in the world of Marvel. Wolverine made his debut in 1974 in "Incredible Hulk #180", when he fought for the mysterious Department H against the Hulk. By the time the MCU kicked off with "Iron Man" and "The Incredible Hulk" in 2008, the Hulk was still one of the franchise's key characters. However, due to some rights problems, the character has not been given his own solo film since then, although he was very prominent in projects such as "Thor: Ragnarok" and "She-Hulk".

In an interview back in 2014, Hugh Jackman stated that there was no doubt that Wolverine and Hulk would one day face off against each other. After his return in "Deadpool & Wolverine", he also seems to have taken a liking to continuing to embody the mutant. "Hulk" actor Mark Ruffalo is also allegedly not opposed to the crossover.

At present, it is still unclear what the planned project will ultimately look like. Will it be a spin-off with the familiar actors or a sort of new beginning in the MCU? The possibilities are endless – we can't wait to find out!

The development of the Hulk in live-action films: a journey through the Marvel Cinematic Universe and beyond

The Hulk, the green giant with immeasurable rage and inexhaustible strength, is one of the best-known characters in the Marvel Universe. Since his introduction in the comics in 1962, Bruce Banner and his furious alter ego have had a remarkable journey in pop culture, including numerous appearances in live-action films.

1. Hulk (2003)

The Hulk's first major live-action film appearance was in "Hulk" (2003), directed by Ang Lee. The movie was an early attempt to bring the complex and tragic story of Bruce Banner, played by Eric Bana, to the big screen. The plot focuses on Banner's traumatic childhood, his uncontrollable transformation into the Hulk and his conflicted relationship with his father.

The visual representation of the Hulk was done entirely through CGI, which was considered groundbreaking at the time, but seems somewhat dated today. Although the film was praised for its in-depth character development and artistic ambition, it was controversial among critics and fans alike. Many felt the realization was too heavy-handed and too psychological to fully capture the essence of the Hulk.

2. The Incredible Hulk (2008)

After the moderate success of "Hulk", the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) took control of the character and released "The Incredible Hulk" (2008), with Edward Norton in the role of Bruce Banner. This film, directed by Louis Leterrier, represents a new beginning and is the second film in the MCU after "Iron Man".

The plot shows Banner on the run from the military as he tries to find a cure for his condition. The Hulk is portrayed here as a dangerous but heroic figure fighting against the Abomination (played by Tim Roth). The movie incorporates more action and comic book elements and was better received by fans than its predecessor. However, Edward Norton did not remain part of the MCU for long due to creative differences behind the scenes.

3. The Avengers (2012)

"The Avengers" (2012) marked the beginning of the Hulk's most successful era in live-action films. Mark Ruffalo took on the role of Bruce Banner and brought a new dynamic to the character. The film, directed by Joss Whedon, was a milestone for the MCU as it united several superheroes, including Iron Man, Thor, Captain America and the Hulk.

In "The Avengers", Banner is shown not only as a scientist, but also as a team player. His famous line "I'm always angry" during the battle in New York became an iconic moment in which the Hulk uses his destructive power in a controlled manner to fight the alien Chitauri. Ruffalo's portrayal of the Hulk received much praise, and the seamless integration of CGI and motion-capture technology set new standards.

4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

The Hulk returned in "Avengers: Age of Ultron" (2015), where he is once again part of the team. The movie explores Banner's inner conflicts and his growing relationship with Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow). A highlight of the film is the epic battle between the Hulk and Iron Man's Hulkbuster armor, which is triggered by Scarlet Witch's manipulation.

The portrayal of the Hulk became more emotional and nuanced as the movie shows both his destructive nature and his human vulnerability. Nevertheless, Banner's fear of not being able to control the Hulk becomes the central theme of his development.

Image of AVENGERS 2 - Age of Ultron (2015) Official Trailer #3

5. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

"Thor: Ragnarok" (2017) brought a surprising twist to the Hulk story. The film, directed by Taika Waititi, is a colorful and humorous reimagining of the Thor universe in which the Hulk plays a prominent role. After the events of "Age of Ultron", the Hulk has not transformed back into Bruce Banner for two years and lives on the planet Sakaar as a gladiator.

The film shows a looser, almost comedic side to the Hulk, who has more dialog and acts as a character in his own right. The interactions between Hulk and Thor were a highlight of the movie and helped to develop the character further.

Image of THOR 3: Ragnarok Trailer 2 (2017)

6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) and Avengers: Endgame (2019)

In "Avengers: Infinity War" (2018), the Hulk experienced a surprising twist: After a fierce battle against Thanos, he refuses Banner's attempts to summon him. This conflict between Banner and the Hulk continues in "Avengers: Endgame" (2019), where Banner finally finds the perfect balance between the two personalities and returns as "Professor Hulk".

This version combines Banner's intellect with the Hulk's strength and has been brought to life through motion-capture technology. While "Infinity War" shows the Hulk's vulnerability, "Endgame" emphasizes his transformation into a mature, more peaceful figure.

Image of AVENGERS 4: Endgame Trailer 2 (2019)

7. She-Hulk and possible future appearances

In the Disney+ series "She-Hulk: Attorney at Law" (2022), the Hulk appears as a supporting character and helps his cousin Jennifer Walters understand her own powers. Mark Ruffalo returns to provide a humorous and supportive performance. While the series focuses more on comedy, it shows how the Hulk has evolved after "Endgame". The future of the Hulk in the MCU remains exciting, with rumors swirling about a possible adaptation of the popular "World War Hulk" storyline.

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