  The HulkMPAA Rating:
 for sci-fi action violence, some disturbing images and brief partial nudity.Reviewed by: Jay Levitz Average
Moviemaking Quality:
Primary Audience:
Teens, Adults
Genre:
Action, Adventure, Drama, Science Fiction
Length:
2 hr. 18 min.
Year of Release:
2003
USA Release:
June 20, 2003
 Starring: Eric Bana, Jennifer Connelly, Nick Nolte, Sam Elliott, Josh Lucas | Directed by: Ang Lee | Produced by: Avi Arad, Gale Anne Hurd, Larry J. Franco, James Schamus | Written by: David Hayter, James Schamus, Michael France, John Turman, Michael Tolkin | Distributor: Universal Pictures | Produced in association with Marvel Enterprises, a Valhalla Motion Pictures/Good Machine production The first thing many adults will want to know about director Ang Lee's new film, The Hulk, is, “Will it be like the television show of the '70s, starring Lou Ferrigno? Yes, Lou Ferrigno is in the film—for roughly 10 seconds, playing a security guard. No, he does not play the hulk. And this blockbuster is definitely based on a comic book, not a TV series, as evidenced by the creative wipe effects and split screens—familiar to comic readers and rarely ever used in films of the last 2-3 decades. For those unfamiliar with The Hulk's premise, this is a Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde story re-told in the vernacular of modern science. Scientist Bruce Banner (newcomer Eric Bana) gets in the way of a lab accident involving deadly gamma rays, which would have killed him, except… you have to see the movie to find out the rest of that puzzle. As in typical comic book style, such as the recent SPIDERMAN (also created by artist Stan Lee), hero Bruce is a science whiz who can't have the girl he wants until he undergoes a transformation that occurs in spite of himself. After receiving his new powers, he does his utmost to save his girl, Betty (Oscar winner Jennifer Connelly) from peril while father figures struggle to control him and keep young Bruce (aka The Hulk) away from her. Bruce Banner's periodic transformations into a 12-foot-tall, seemingly indestructible green monster may be seen as a metaphor of frustrated masculine anger given complete vent. Set loose “from the boundaries God has set up” through science, Bruce now has the freedom to wreak uncontrollable havoc, expressing his rage through extreme physical violence. But the hero's power also enslaves him, frightens Betty, and makes him a target for evil men seeking to take advantage of his strength. Even more interesting, it is revealed through flashbacks that Bruce was born with this monster inside him, ready to explode given the opportunity. This raises questions in one's own mind—is there something dark and evil inside of me that would cause an awakening of rage, given the right circumstance? Can a human being—even a small baby crying for its stolen pacifier—be capable of unyielding ferocity? This movie suggests this same premise and carries the metaphor to thought-provoking lengths.
For mindless entertainment this summer, look elsewhere. The Hulk is a frightening, relevant reflection of a society willing to defy God in pursuit of more power, of fathers deserting and destroying their own offspring, and of children seeking ways to move beyond their parents' self-serving power struggles in order to find real life and hope. For more on hope, see: THE HOPE.
Don't believe The Hulk is demonic, despite his green, frightening appearance. He's the true nature of all human flesh made manifest—self-serving, cunning, and evil. This is one film where Hollywood gets sin right. There is no “power within” Bruce Banner to help him conquer the monster who keeps rearing its ugly head each time he gets angry. Only love seems to appease him. Ang Lee's new epic, “The Hulk,” is a fascinating morally-grounded story that will thrill action-adventure and comic book fans. The objectionable content includes the use of God's name in vain a few uses, plus a long shot of Bruce's bare posterior. The violence is primarily directed toward objects, machines, and some large, vicious dogs. Year of Release—2003Sequel to this film: The Incredible Hulk (2008)  
Positive - I found the Hulk movie very enjoyable for two reasons. First it had a good story, and second it was well acted. It had some intense Hulk comic book style fighting, especially with the Hulk dogs. If you are thinking about bringing your child under the age of 12 to this movie, i would encourage you to see it first to decide if your child can handle those scenes. This movie will appeal to both Adults with the script, and acting, but the kids will love the Hulk smashing things. The only objectional think I find in this film is some language, not a lot, but there is one GD in the film that I wish wasn't there. I saw it with a group of Christian friends and we all loved it. There is some good things to talk about with your children after the film. Go see it and decide for yourself. Neutral — I thought that this movie wasn't as exciting as I thought it would be and it reminded me a lot of spiderman in a sense even though the Hulk destroyed things. I don't know if I'd let my eleven year old brother watch it though because there are some frightening moments. I think parents should watch it before there children. Positive — A teriffic twist on the plethora of comic-book movies out there. This film is more introspective and character-driven than expected, and director Ang Lee gives us a visual feast that feels like entering into a comic book come to life. Some interesting illustrations of man's struggle with his own nature, but most of all, a neat summer film. Positive — I was surprised at how good this film was. I enjoyed the special effects and the storyline. Despite the brief rear nudity and mild language, this is an overall good movie. Great moral values are displayed such as love and friendship between the two main stars. This is one of the rare wholesome movies since Spider-man. My advice, if you enjoy sci-fi action flicks, this is a must-see. Negative — I really was saddened by the outcome of this movie. If you want to see a good movie, go see “Spider-man” There were a lot of cool action scenes with the hulk destroying lots of property, but when I walked out of the theater, I have over a dozen questions running through my head. They leave you out in the open, I didn't understand half of the things going on. And the first half hour was really boring, and then the rest was pretty boring except for the fighting scenes. Don't waste your money on this film. Positive — First off, this is NOT the Lou Ferrigno Hulk from TV. I repeat, NOT!! I want to also add up front that this movie is WAY too intense for children. Parents, please do NOT take your kids to The Hulk thinking this is remotley like the old TV show. Movie Critics
…cutting-edge special effects extravaganza and a throwback to those science fiction classics of the '50s, where B-movie makers actually had things to say about the human condition. It's the best of both worlds, filled with visual energy, genuine artistry and compelling human emotions… …big, exciting, opulently designed, gorgeously shot and blessed with a top cast… …far better than its trailer …A dozen profanities include one s-word, one “g—d--” and two exclamatory uses of Jesus' name… …No one gets in bed with anybody… There was not even sexual innuendo. …Just the brief full rear male nudity …is ALL of the sexual content… Producer’s Synopsis: In this adaptation of the long-running Marvel comic “The Incredible Hulk,” research scientist Dr. Bruce Banner's (Eric Bana) failed experiments cause him to mutate into a monstrously powerful and savage green-skinned behemoth whenever he loses control of his emotions. Jennifer Connelly plays his love interest Betty Ross, Nick Nolte plays Bruce's dangerous father, and Sam Elliott plays Betty's father, the tough-as-nails General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. |
