The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become well-known for transforming iconic comic book scenes into riveting cinematic experiences, with the Hulk standing out among these adaptations. Over the years, the massive green figure has been integral to some of the most unforgettable moments within the MCU, many of which are rooted in classic Marvel Comics storytelling. These sequences add depth beyond mere visual effects, presenting faithful interpretations of some of the Hulk’s most remarkable exploits.
Hulk’s evolution throughout the years is marked by numerous changes, reflecting his pivotal role in major Marvel sagas. His narratives often delve into profound themes such as control, solitude, and acceptance, elevating him to one of the most intriguing figures in the Marvel Universe. The MCU’s depiction of Hulk has varied widely—from his initial portrayals as a chaotic force in The Incredible Hulk (2008) to the more balanced portrayal of Smart Hulk in Avengers: Endgame (2019). Despite these shifts, one element remains constant: the MCU consistently pays tribute to iconic moments from classic Hulk storylines in Marvel Comics, presenting them in innovative and engaging ways.
10
Hulk Becomes A Gladiator
As Seen In Thor: Ragnarok
One of the most visually striking and comic-faithful moments is found in Thor: Ragnarok (2017), where Hulk takes on the role of a gladiator on Sakaar. The comics depict Hulk as being exiled from Earth and crashing onto this alien planet, where he must endure brutal battles under the tyrannical rule of the Red King. Over time, he transforms from a mere combatant into a revolutionary leader, a theme streamlined in the MCU where he is presented as the champion of the Grandmaster’s Contest of Champions. His rivalry and ensuing camaraderie with Thor echo plotlines from Planet Hulk, where he also engages in combat in a similar arena. While the complete Planet Hulk storyline isn’t fully adapted, Thor: Ragnarok captures the spirit of Hulk’s warrior life on Sakaar with remarkable fidelity.
9
Hulk Thunderclaps Out Fire
As Seen In The Incredible Hulk
Hulk’s trademark thunderclap is among his most iconic abilities, vividly showcased in The Incredible Hulk (2008) and later by the Red Hulk in Captain America: Brave New World. As flames threaten to engulf everything, Hulk performs a thunderous clap, creating a shockwave that extinguishes the fire. This sequence harkens back to various comic moments where Hulk employs his thunderclap to similar effect.
In The Incredible Hulk #300, he famously uses the thunderclap to snuff out the Human Torch’s flames, emphasizing the capability and versatility of this move. Similarly, in Incredible Hulks #618, he demonstrates the strategic significance of this technique, which serves both defensive and offensive purposes. While the MCU has yet to fully exploit the overwhelming force behind Hulk’s thunderclap—an ability potent enough to topple structures and repel the most formidable assaults—it remains one of the most faithful representations of the character’s comic book antics.
8
Hulk Battles The Mighty Thor
As Seen In Thor: Ragnarok
This encounter mirrors the numerous clashes between these two juggernauts throughout Marvel Comics history. One pivotal instance occurs in The Defenders #10 (1973), featuring a fierce conflict to ascertain who holds the title of the strongest. Another critical reference is from The Incredible Hulk #300, showcasing a mindless Hulk battling Thor in a catastrophic duel aimed at testing the Asgardian’s strength.
In the MCU adaptation, this dynamic is captured perfectly, illustrating Hulk’s immense might against Thor’s skill and divine abilities. Though the fight’s outcome is deliberately left uncertain due to the Grandmaster’s interference, it serves as a faithful homage to the iconic comic battles between Hulk and Thor.
7
Hulk Vs The Abomination
As Seen In The Incredible Hulk
One of the earliest and most direct comic adaptations in the MCU occurs in The Incredible Hulk (2008), featuring a showdown between Hulk and the Abomination. This fierce battle draws inspiration from Tales to Astonish #90 (1967), where Emil Blonsky undergoes his transformation into Abomination and faces Hulk for the first time. Much like in the comics, the MCU’s Abomination presents a formidable challenge for Hulk, showcasing his enhanced strength due to mutation.
The film captures the raw brutality of their comic confrontations, with the two titans wreaking havoc across Harlem during their clash. Ultimately, while Hulk prevails—consistent with his comic book narratives—the fight exemplifies one of his most significant rivalries. Their story evolves, leading to later interactions in She-Hulk: Attorney At Law.
6
Bruce Banner Becomes The Smart Hulk
As Seen In Avengers: Endgame
In Avengers: Endgame, audiences are introduced to Smart Hulk, a seamless integration of Bruce Banner’s intellect and Hulk’s raw power. This portrayal draws inspiration from Incredible Hulk #377 (1991), which depicts Banner finally reconciling his duality to become a more balanced and intelligent Hulk. In the original comic, psychiatrist Doc Samson aids Banner in confronting his inner demons, resulting in a unified persona known as “Professor Hulk.”
The MCU parallels this transformation, albeit taking place off-screen during the five-year hiatus post-Infinity War. By combining his intellect with Hulk’s strength, Smart Hulk emerges as a distinctive force within the team, capable of rational thought without sacrificing physical prowess.
5
Hulk Tries To Lift Mjolnir
As Seen In The Avengers (2012)
One unforgettable moment from The Avengers (2012) is Hulk’s humorous yet futile attempt to lift Thor’s magical hammer, Mjolnir. This scene echoes Avengers (1996) #5, where Hulk, angry and fueled by determination, attempts to wield Mjolnir during a battle. In both scenarios, Hulk applies all his might, yet the hammer remains immovable, illustrating that strength alone cannot dictate worthiness.
The film injects humor into this moment, juxtaposing Hulk’s struggle with Thor’s nonchalant demeanor during their battle on the Helicarrier. In the comics, Hulk’s fury spurs him to try harder, yet Mjolnir remains resolute. While each iteration varies in tone, they both emphasize an unwavering principle within the Marvel Universe: even someone as formidable as Hulk cannot defy certain limits.
4
Hulk Fathers An Alien Son
As Revealed In She-Hulk: Attorney At Law
The emergence of Skaar in She-Hulk: Attorney At Law serves as a direct allusion to Hulk’s comic book lineage, particularly from Planet Hulk and World War Hulk. While Thor: Ragnarok offers a loose interpretation of the Sakaar saga, it does not delve into Hulk’s romantic involvement with Caiera the Oldstrong, which ultimately leads to Skaar’s introduction in the comics. Within Planet Hulk, Hulk becomes a champion and falls in love, unknowingly fathering a son.
Skaar’s existence is revealed later on in World War Hulk, having survived the devastation of Sakaar. The MCU’s revelation of Skaar simplifies the backstory, implying Hulk fathered a child during his adventures on Sakaar. Although the details differ, the core theme persists: Hulk’s interstellar escapades come with significant ramifications, highlighting that even the mightiest beings grapple with the duties of parenthood.
3
Hulk Holds Up A Building To Save His Comrades
As Seen In Avengers: Endgame
In a heroic display during Avengers: Endgame, Hulk demonstrates his extraordinary strength by holding up the debris of the Avengers Compound to safeguard his teammates. This striking moment draws directly from Secret Wars #4 (1984), where Hulk’s strength is tested as he supports an entire mountain range to save the Avengers. The Beyonder traps Earth’s heroes beneath 150 billion tons of rubble, and only Hulk’s extraordinary might prevents their annihilation.
While the MCU scene is scaled down to a collapsing structure, the imagery of Hulk struggling under the weight of catastrophe signifies a homage to this legendary episode. Both recountings highlight Hulk’s unwavering endurance, self-sacrifice, and raw power. Although tailored to fit the cinematic narrative, the tribute to this classic comic scene remains unmistakable, celebrating Hulk as one of Marvel’s invaluable champions.
2
Hulk Fights Hulkbuster Iron Man
As Seen In Avengers: Age of Ultron
Tony Stark’s Hulkbuster armor makes its explosive entrance in Avengers: Age of Ultron, rooted in a rich comic history. One notable illustration appears in Iron Man #304 (1994), where Stark deploys the Hulkbuster suit to rein in an uncontrollable Hulk. In both the comic and the film, the armor is specifically engineered to neutralize Hulk’s ferocious strength, featuring reinforced components and emergency response mechanisms.
The cinematic fight, unfolding destructively through Johannesburg, parallels these epic comic confrontations. Although the catalyst for their battle diverges—stemming from Scarlet Witch’s manipulation rather than a misunderstanding—the core remains unchanged: Hulk represents an unstoppable force, while the Hulkbuster is Stark’s best line of defense against him. Whether portrayed in comics or films, their clashes demand intense drama and thrilling visuals.
1
Hulk Destroys A Giant Wolf
As Seen In Thor: Ragnarok
Hulk’s confrontational encounter with Fenris, also known as Fenrir, in Thor: Ragnarok stands out as a spectacular moment, showcasing his strength against a formidable mythic creature. This conflict directly mirrors an episode in Incredible Hulk #2 (2023), where Hulk engages with a colossal wolf of supernatural nature. In both adaptations, Hulk’s strategy relies on overpowering the creature through sheer brute force. In Thor: Ragnarok, Hulk is depicted as the only one capable of subduing Fenris, dragging the fight to the water to ensure victory.
Although the comic iteration features a different dynamic, the fundamental portrayal remains intact: an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. Both scenes emphasize Hulk’s capability to confront adversaries that extend beyond the realm of standard supervillains, cementing his reputation as a fighter against existential threats from every dimension, including those steeped in mythology. This remains one of the most celebrated instances of comic book moments translated into film, showcasing the strength of the character as represented in Marvel’s expansive lore.