Why Marvel Must Revive This Classic Hulk Story with Sentry in the MCU!

The show has highlighted and focused on various iconic Marvel characters, some of which have been less favorably represented recently, such as Hulk, whose portrayal post-“Avengers: Endgame” has left many viewers unsatisfied. A possible approach is to reimagine a famous comic book storyline, and given that one character has been introduced into the Marvel Cinatic Universe (MCU), it’s increasingly vital to bring this narrative to the screen.

In the continuation of the storyline known as “World War Hulk,” an enraged and banished Hulk launched attacks against numerous Marvel superheroes, leaving destruction in his wake. This narrative serves as a follow-up to “Planet Hulk.” One of the standout battles featured Hulk vs Sentry, who has recently made his debut in the MCU through the film Thunderbolts*. Given the high demand among fans for the restoration of the Hulk’s past power and menace, incorporating aspects from “World War Hulk” could significantly enhance this aspect.

Sentry vs. Hulk Was a Highlight of World War Hulk

The Battle Was the Climax of the Epic Marvel Event

In 2007, a series of connected comic book events called “World War Hulk” unfolded, written by Greg Pak, John Romita Jr., and Klaus Janson. This storyline followed up on the “Planet Hulk” saga where Hulk was banished from Earth by a group known as the Illuminati and sent to the planet Sakaar. On this new world, Hulk rose to become a hero, finding more admiration than he had ever experienced on our own planet Earth.

Furious beyond measure, I accuse the Illuminati of orchestrating an assassination attempt. Back on Earth, I declare war on its superheroes. Targeting teams like the Fantastic Four, who have been weakened by the M-Day incident, my Warbound army and I employ technology to subdue and control them, preventing them from using their powers against us.

The Gamma Corps assemble primarily to confront Hulk, and even formidable figures like Ghost Rider attempt but ultimately fail to subdue him. In a grim turn of events, several members of the Illuminati engage in mortal combat against each other, instigated by Hulk’s desire to witness the heroes’ downfall following his devastation of New York. However, the ultimate test arrives when the Guardian of Good squares off against Hulk in a fierce battle.

In “World War Hulk,” it’s clear that The Sentry is the primary adversary for the Hulk. Their intense confrontation leaves both characters transformed back into their human forms, Bob Reynolds and Bruce Banner respectively. However, following a threat to Rick Jones, Bruce reverts to the Hulk once more. This transformation poses a danger not only to individuals but also to the entire Earth due to his immense radiation. It’s only through satellite intervention by Tony Stark that the Hulk is eventually subdued, although it should be noted that The Sentry gave him a tough fight.

Why Fans are Disappointed In the MCU Hulk

The Avengers Movies Have Reduced the Character’s Pathos

Some people believe that after Mark Ruffalo took over as Banner/Hulk in the 2012 Avengers, the portrayal of Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has noticeably declined in quality. Over time, the frequent humor and occasionally childish elements introduced into this shared universe have diminished any sense of peril or underlying menace associated with the character, not to mention erasing many of the complex psychological traits from his comic book origins.

In the peak of its popularity, it was widely believed that the series “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” saw a climax, with some criticism directed towards the portrayal of Hulk’s son, Skaar, during his introduction. Notably, only Hulk, Thor, and Hawkeye remain as the original Avengers, and their continued use has sparked debate in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films following “Endgame.” Both Hulk and Thor have been employed in a comedic manner, giving an impression that the Marvel Cinematic Universe is increasingly focusing on humor, which some viewers find unsuccessful as an effort to attract younger audiences.

It’s quite possible that we’ll witness more appearances from Clint Barton’s character Hawkeye in the future, given that actor Jeremy Renner has refused a second season due to pay disagreements. As the MCU struggles to establish its newer characters and with many beloved ones now deceased, capitalizing on established classics like Hawkeye could help revive fan interest and trust in the franchise.

An intriguing method to reinvigorate this scenario could involve reviving the Hulk as a menace once more. Some fans question how the MCU Hulk might be returned to his ferocious form or something similar, but it’s evident that the Professor Hulk version lacks appeal. It’s worth mentioning that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has previously incorporated aspects of “Planet Hulk” in the film Thor: Ragnarok, which might make revisiting those storylines a bit odd at this juncture. However, given the backlash from his initial introduction, the death of Skaar, Hulk’s half-alien son, could serve as a trigger for adapting “World War Hulk.” In this adaptation, the MCU’s Hulk can rediscover a fury he hasn’t felt in years, while simultaneously confronting his most formidable adversary yet.

The Sentry Is the Only One Who Can Stop a Returned Savage Hulk

The MCU Must Take Advantage of The Sentry’s Introduction

At present, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is moving towards a genuine narrative arc leading up to “Avengers: Doomsday.” Following this film, there’s uncertainty regarding the MCU’s future, as many fans speculate that the shared universe may undergo a soft reboot when it reaches its 20th year.

If some aspects remain constant while others are altered, the ongoing nature of the Hulk character becomes uncertain. However, it’s unlikely that everything will start anew from scratch, as core ideas and themes about the characters will likely stay consistent. If this is true, a common situation could be set up, leading to something resembling “Planet Hulk.” This foundation can then serve as a stepping stone for the adaptation of “World War Hulk.

It’s possible that Lewis Pullman’s character, The Sentry, might continue in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Given his recent introduction, he holds immense potential to become the MCU’s foremost powerhouse, performing feats that would leave other heroes envious. This could solidify him as a formidable adversary, even for the most powerful entities within the MCU. Such a role might prove more effective than how Captain Marvel has been utilized so far.

In other words, during the hypothetical “Avengers: World War Hulk” film, their confrontation would be a culmination of sorts, setting Sentry apart as an exceptionally powerful Marvel character while also revitalizing the menace associated with The Hulk and providing him with a more captivating persona.

Translating the statement into simpler language:

Using “World War Hulk” as a basis could serve as an effective follow-up for the next phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, similar to a successful sequel or continuation. Moreover, introducing the Illuminati, featuring a recast Tony Stark and X-Men founder Charles Xavier, can be an efficient method to demonstrate the alterations in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s timeline following “Secret Wars.” Since “World War Hulk” is over 20 years old, bringing it to the big screen for its anniversary would make a fitting tribute.

Thunderbolts* is now playing in theaters.

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2025-05-24 04:21