Hey, True Believers! Find out whether or not the newest animated Marvel flick is smashingly good.
Hulk Vs.—directed by Sam Liu and Frank Paur and written by Craig Kyle and
Christopher Yost—was released at the end of January, and a lot of people (including myself) were eagerly awaiting its green-tinted arrival. But how does it stack up, all hype aside? Answering that question involves splitting this review in two, because Hulk Vs. is actually a double-feature: two entirely separate films, both of which center on the Hulk/Dr. Bruce Banner.
The key focus of the first movie, Hulk vs. Wolverine, is definitely “versus.” At only thirty-seven minutes, the first half of the DVD lacks plot investment but gives you an action-packed battle fest instead. In the story, Wolverine (voiced by Steve Blum) is hired by Department H to take down the reckless creature known as the Hulk. The Ol’ Canucklehead soon learns, much to his surprise, that the Hulk is also the “weepy,” half-naked man he finds trembling in the woods, who turns into his green alter ego when he’s angry or stressed. Their showdown is only just starting when both the Hulk and Wolverine are shot with tranquilizers by the sinister Weapon X team—the group that infused Wolverine with the adamantium that laces his skeleton. It’s not long before Wolverine realizes that the true cause behind the recent destruction and murders is not the Hulk but Weapon X, who has been hunting down the Hulk in order to use him for their own ill means.
Although I’m disappointed that there wasn’t more of an in-depth storyline, there was plenty to like about Wolverine. The most attractive feature is the introduction to Deadpool (Nolan North)—one of my own favorite Marvel characters—who makes his first ever appearance in an animated movie. The biggest entertainment comes from listening to his characteristic humor and one-liners. But the movie showcases a great but minimal cast of characters, including Lady Deathstrike (Janyse Jaud), Omega Red (Colin Murdock), Sabretooth (Mark Acheson), and of course Wolverine. The developers certainly aren’t afraid to prove that the Hulk bleeds red, either. This film—as well as Hulk vs. Thor—is rated PG-13, so the Merc with a Mouth, as well as the others, can let the blood and profanity fly. Also, there’s a cool nod to X-23 in there and a fun extra moment with Deadpool after the credits roll.
So if you can overlook the sort of “dropped” plotline and you’re willing to just savor the violent and bloody action, you’ll probably have a blast with Hulk vs. Wolverine. But if you’re craving a more developed story, there’s a treat waiting for you with Thor.
Hulk vs. Thor is definitely the more rewarding of the two, especially when it comes to the story. Odinsleep is upon Asgard, home to the gods. The forces of evil continuously take advantage of Odin’s period of winter rest, trying to seize Asgard for their own. Although they repeatedly fail, this year Loki (voice talent by Graham McTavish) has something special planned for his step-brother, Thor (Matthew Wolf). Loki has brought Bruce Banner (Bryce Johnson) to Asgard, and with Amora’s help he succeeds in dividing Bruce from the Hulk. Through the power of Amora’s spell, the vengeance-driven Loki uses the Hulk to viciously attack Thor. However, he quickly loses power over the beast, setting him free to wreak havoc on Asgard.
Thor, Amora, and Loki have no choice but to join forces, and with the rest of Asgard they fight to stop the Hulk before he reaches Odin in his vulnerable state. However, Loki foolishly killed Bruce in his anger, and his soul was claimed by Hela (Janyse Jaud, also Lady Deathstrike talent), goddess of the dead. While Lady Sif (Grey DeLisle) and Amora (Kari Wahlgrenhe) reluctantly work together to protect Odin from the unbridled rage of the Hulk—stronger than ever without the presence of Bruce to hold him back—Thor and Loki travel to Hela’s realm in the hope of persuading her to release Bruce’s soul. Unless Bruce is returned to his other half, the Hulk cannot be stopped.
Fans of Hulk vs. Wolverine will find more violence and gore in Thor, and those who were itching for a more developed plot will be happy with the second movie, as well. The cast of characters is more vast—among those already mentioned is Balder, Volstagg, Hogun, Fandral, and Betty Ross—and the story runs deeper.
The animation in both movies is crisp and the fight scenes are fun to watch. The reflection of the Hulk off of Wolverine’s claws is awesome, for one; the Hulk easily pummels the warriors of Asgard. However, overall the two movies came up short. They were good, but nothing about them really made me do a double-take. Who knows, maybe I’m spoiled after Gotham Knight—but I do wish Hulk vs. Wolverine had a less 2D story and that as a whole the DVD was a little more satisfying. Still, if you’re a Marvel fan you’re sure to enjoy Hulk Vs., so it’s worth a watch.
February 16th, 2009 at 9:29 am
These are too violent for me, I think I will wait until “Hulk Loves” and “Hulk Helps the Orphans”.
February 16th, 2009 at 9:36 am
“Hulk Goes to the Circus?” These sound like Curious George adventures.
February 16th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Cool! I think I may have to check it out!
February 16th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Okay, Hulk vs. Wolverine is worth watching just for the Deadpool moments alone. Some of those are totally priceless:)
February 16th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
I love the Hulk. He is so misunderstood.
February 16th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
@Red Laura Lmao, I know. I really love Deadpool.
And the Hulk/Bruce Banner! <3
February 17th, 2009 at 9:44 am
I loved the Hulk vs Thor story more, but I did like the inclusion of Dead Pool in the Wolverine one. Good review!
February 17th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
saw it at comic con. it was a lot of fun.