Thus far in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as in the original comics, The Incredible Hulk has drawn his power from anger and rage. Though Bruce Banner has been able to exert slightly more control over The Hulk, he's still a feral wrecking ball in many ways. Though awesome to watch, that doesn't always make for the most interesting character.
That is why it is interesting to hear that Hulk's return in "Thor: Ragnarok" may find him a bit more self-aware and intelligent. Speaking with Ain't It Cool News, actor Mark Ruffalo revealed that the Banner and Hulk personas are starting to merge more than ever.
"It's very subtle, but the Banner/Hulk consciousness is beginning to meld a little bit," Ruffalo said. "Who decided to leave? Was it Banner or Hulk? It's not really in the (cinematic) mythology of Hulk up until that moment to be that conscious and pro-active. It's interesting, right?"
The dynamic between The Hulk and Bruce Banner has always echoed that of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. But combining those two personalities to a certain degree will give audiences a new perspective on the character.
The comics have given Hulk greater intelligence in past iterations, but never before have we seen it on screen. Beyond differentiating between which people to smash, it will be fascinating to see the raging green monster start to reason and think for himself. It's doubtful Hulk will possess Banner's immense intellect, but even just a bit more personality from Hulk will go a long way in developing the character.
As Ruffalo mentions, when last we saw Hulk he was piloting a Quinn Jet and deciding to go into exile. Does that sound like the type of decision-making and capabilities we normally associate with him?
How Hulk involves himself with the cosmic affairs of Asgard remains to be seen, but we are excited to find out. "Thor: Ragnarok" will hit theaters on Nov. 3, 2017.
