Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for What If…? Season 3
The Long-Awaited World War Hulk: Rumors and Reality
For years, the Marvel community has speculated about the potential for a World War Hulk adaptation. With rumors continually resurfacing, it’s clear that anticipation runs high among fans. Recently, chatter has intensified, hinting that the upcoming Captain America: Brave New World, scheduled for 2025, may lay the groundwork for Bruce Banner’s first solo cinematic adventure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Despite the constant buzz from various insiders, it’s disappointing that no live-action representation of World War Hulk has materialized. While we’ve seen an animated interpretation with Planet Hulk and a nod to the storyline in the 2016 episode of Avengers Assemble, the desire for a dedicated live-action feature remains unfulfilled. Interestingly, the MCU has begun to subtly thread elements of this iconic narrative into its larger tapestry.
What If…? Season 3: A Unique Take on World War Hulk
Earth’s Mightiest Heroes Face A Resentful Hulk
In a recent twist, the third season of What If…? explores the MCU’s interpretation of the World War Hulk storyline. The premise revolves around a Hulk driven by vengeance, echoing the comic book’s themes but tailored to fit the show’s unique format.
The comics present a Hulk who, after enduring tremendous loss, unleashes his fury upon the Illuminati and Earth’s mightiest heroes. In this animated adaptation, an attempt to eliminate the Hulk leads to the emergence of a new villain known as The Apex, who is born from Bruce Banner’s misguided attempts to rid himself of the Hulk. This bifurcation results in chaos as The Apex leads an aggressive assault on Earth.
Against formidable odds, Banner’s allies equip themselves with enhanced Hulkbuster suits designed by Tony Stark. However, the initial battles take a deadly toll, with many original Avengers meeting their fate in the ensuing chaos. The New Avengers must muster what remains of Earth’s defenders to confront this overwhelming threat, culminating in a gripping final confrontation.
Ultimately, Hulk’s transformation into a new form, the Mega Hulk, becomes the turning point in this battle. While the approach and details differ from the beloved comic storyline, the central themes resonate with devoted fans, leaving them yearning for a proper live-action representation in the near future.
The Frustration of Incomplete Adaptations in the MCU
The Call for Authenticity in Hulk Battles
While What If…? adds an exciting layer to the Hulk narrative, it falls short of delivering an authentic clash between the Hulk and his fellow Avengers—a battle that fans have longed to see. Historically, the MCU has teased such a confrontation across multiple films, only to divert from fulfilling this high-stakes battle.
From the Hulk’s rampage aboard the SHIELD Helicarrier in The Avengers to the epic showdown with Iron Man in Age of Ultron—where circumstances undermined a true battle—enthusiasts have yet to witness a full-blown conflict. The potential of Hulk as a villain was even hinted at with connections to previous narratives, only to remain unexplored.
Despite the shortcomings in execution, the initial episode of What If…? Season 3 reignites interest in a more authentic adaptation of World War Hulk. With Hulk’s character once again prominent in the MCU narrative, fans hope Marvel will eventually heed the call for a definitive cinematic portrayal of this iconic storyline.
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