4 Ways ‘The Incredible Hulk’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

When ‘The Incredible Hulk’ hit theaters in 2008, it kicked off the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s second chapter with a roar. Edward Norton’s take on Bruce Banner delivered a gritty, action-packed story that aimed to reboot the Hulk’s big-screen legacy after the 2003 film. 

Seventeen years later, I rewatched the movie to see how it stands the test of time. Some parts feel like relics of an earlier era, while others still pack a punch. Below, I dive into five ways the film hasn’t aged well and five ways it remains a standout.

Aged Poorly – Dated CGI for Hulk and Abomination

The visual effects for Hulk and Abomination were impressive for their time, but they don’t hold up today. The CGI looks clunky, with unnatural movements and textures that pull you out of the action, especially during the Harlem showdown.

Compared to the smoother, more lifelike Hulk in ‘The Avengers’ (2012), this version feels like a rough draft. Modern audiences expect seamless visuals, and the dated effects make the film feel stuck in the early 2000s.

Aged Masterfully – Edward Norton’s Intense Bruce Banner

Edward Norton’s portrayal of Bruce Banner is a highlight that still shines. His wiry, haunted take on the scientist captures the torment of a man wrestling with his inner monster.

Norton brings a raw intensity that makes Banner’s struggle feel real. His performance grounds the film, offering a depth that keeps you invested, even when other elements falter.

Aged Poorly – Underdeveloped Romance with Betty Ross

The love story between Bruce and Betty Ross, played by Liv Tyler, feels flat and forced. Their chemistry lacks spark, and the script rushes their emotional connection without giving it room to grow.

Betty’s role as the damsel in distress also feels outdated. Modern superhero films give female characters more agency, making this romance seem like a missed opportunity.

Aged Masterfully – Grounded Action Sequences

The film’s action scenes, especially the foot chase in Rocinha and the university battle, still deliver. Director Louis Leterrier crafts tense, kinetic moments that feel grounded in a real-world setting.

These sequences balance Hulk’s raw power with Bruce’s human vulnerability. They hold up as thrilling examples of early MCU action done right.

Aged Poorly – Weak Villain in Abomination

Tim Roth’s Emil Blonsky, aka Abomination, falls short as a compelling foe. His transformation into a monster feels rushed, and his motivations are thinly sketched, making him more of a plot device than a true threat.

Compared to later MCU villains like Loki or Thanos, Abomination lacks depth. This makes the final battle feel less impactful today.

Aged Masterfully – Ties to the 1970s TV Series

The film’s nods to ‘The Incredible Hulk’ TV series (1978-1982) are a masterstroke. From the opening credits to Lou Ferrigno’s cameo and voice work, these touches add nostalgic charm.

They ground the movie in Hulk’s cultural legacy, making it feel like a love letter to longtime fans. These elements still resonate, especially for viewers who grew up with the show.

Aged Poorly – Generic Military Portrayal

The film’s depiction of the military, led by General Ross, feels one-dimensional. They’re painted as a faceless force chasing Bruce, with little nuance or personality.

Modern superhero films often give supporting factions more depth. This generic approach makes the military subplot feel outdated and simplistic.

Aged Masterfully – Bruce’s Fugitive Lifestyle

The depiction of Bruce as a fugitive on the run remains gripping. His life in hiding, from Brazil to Guatemala, feels authentic, with details like his breathing techniques adding depth.

This focus on Bruce’s human struggle sets the film apart. It’s a compelling character study that still holds up as one of the MCU’s more grounded stories.

Aged Masterfully – Timeless Themes of Control

The film’s exploration of Bruce’s battle to control his rage remains powerful. His quest for a cure and fear of hurting others tap into universal themes of self-mastery and redemption.

These ideas keep the story relevant. They give the film a heart that transcends its era, making it resonate with audiences today.

What’s your take on ‘The Incredible Hulk’ – which moments still hit hard, or what feels off now? Drop your thoughts in the comments!