The Marvel Cinematic Universe made a bold call with ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Avengers: Endgame‘, but years later, that decision still feels unfinished.
With ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ on the verge of release, there is an increasing feeling that the transformation of Bruce Banner into Smart Hulk may cost Marvel a very emotional and memorable moment. And it’s not just about missed fights or power scaling. It’s about character.
MCU’s Smart Hulk Era May Have Cost Spider-Man His Most Emotional Team-Up
When Hulk was swiftly beaten by Thanos in ‘Infinity War’, it was not merely a physical defeat; it seemed like a story being shut down. The uncontrollable “Savage Hulk” virtually disappeared, and in its place, “Smart Hulk” came.
However, to be fair, he was not as emotionally charged as the Hulk fans loved. The inner conflict between Banner and Hulk used to feel like a ticking time bomb.
Related: Why Hulk Might Be The Real Problem In ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’
Now? It felt more like a solved equation. It is there that the frustration comes in. That’s where the frustration creeps in. Because Marvel didn’t just evolve Hulk, they skipped the payoff.
No second fight with Thanos or resurgence. No scene in which Hulk demonstrates why he is the strongest. For a character built on rage and redemption, that absence still stings.
A Missed Spider-Man Connection That Could’ve Been Special
Now enter Spider-Man, played by Tom Holland. After the events of ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’, Peter Parker becomes a ghost, forgotten by everyone who once knew him. Everyone, except, potentially, Hulk. The concept of Hulk and Banner not being equally impacted by magic or memory is potent in Marvel Comics.
In case you missed it: Marvel Just Turned Hulk’s Classic Jump Into One of His Most Terrifying Powers
It leads to a chilly straightforwardness, a line that strikes you in the chest: Banner forgot. Hulk didn’t. With Peter, lonely and forgotten, now suddenly faced with someone who still remembers him. Not the refined Smart Hulk, but the submerged, instinctive one.
Such a moment does not require a huge battle or a multiverse mess. It only requires sincerity. Recognition. Connection. However, the issue is as follows: the MCU might have dug its own grave. In the absence of the Savage Hulk actively present, such an emotional payoff is more difficult to achieve, perhaps even impossible without feeling forced.
Still, if ‘Brand New Day’ wants to surprise people, it is the type of risk that can be taken. Since there are moments when the strongest moments of Marvel are not about saving the world. They’re about someone remembering you when no one else does.
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