How Could the Hulk Return To The MCU?
Fans of the Hulk may be disappointed, but after his appearance in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, Bruce Banner and the Hulk have not appeared. The Hulk absence may not be intentional but, rather, Marvel Studios is making an effort to expand their universe with the launch of several exciting titles. This could even involve a push toward the Marvel Now initiative - a major push for redefining some of the key elements across Marvel Comics - including new storylines and heroes.
It could very well lead to new releases for those fans who enjoy Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner or, for those who remember the "Incredible Hulk", the earlier releases with Edward Norton. But, it also serves as a strong reminder to consider that those interested in the Hulk return and the Bruce Banner return (especially for those wanting more appearances) might find more of these stories, especially during Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with several of its productions including the Vision series, or perhaps a new Avengers film.
What Does a Vision Series Have to Do with the Hulk?
A new release - "Vision" is being considered by Marvel to be one of those most anticipated projects. The Vision (as the Vision series is known in the Marvel Cinematic Universe - which features a Marvel TV show, including the events around the Vision - also features a cast including Paul Bettany as the main actor, bringing audiences more into the realm of a show that features the Vision.
However, this is also a prime opportunity to feature a Bruce Banner return. The storyline of Vision is one of the most important productions that is about to reshape those characters from Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015), including James Spader who played Ultron and, who has returned as the central, antagonistic figure - but a story that would involve the Hulk (a character whose appearance has become synonymous with a level of destructive power) in "Vision" would make sense considering Bruce Banner has been instrumental in helping to develop Ultron - but, eventually being forced to face it - leading to a series of intense clashes between them. It would create a more robust and potentially dynamic conflict as Bruce Banner continues to make those important connections across the MCU's timeline.
How Might Marvel Introduce Bruce Banner In the Vision Series?
The series centered around "Vision" and Ultron might have the capacity to draw on Bruce Banner as he appears in an early arc - serving as the prime origin story as we follow the characters in this Marvel Television show.
There have been several Avengers movies featuring both Vision and Ultron. The storylines in "Vision" (which could feature Paul Bettany), could continue the arc that shows just how those characters and the Vision have come to a greater level of recognition, with their origins, goals - and a sense of self - becoming more compelling. The return of Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner would bring the series' audience a more interesting angle for those seeking a more action-packed show. In turn, it will be a new path as we discover how the West Coast Avengers team is also taking shape (and could even provide audiences with a new version of Captain America: Brave New World, another possible production).
Has Marvel Studios Provided Details About How the Hulk Might Return?
While the Hulk return has been an event fans have been expecting, there has yet to be any news. In particular, as many were disappointed to see Bruce Banner leave his role at the end of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, many thought it was just the start of another chapter as fans would likely have been excited to witness more. In contrast, we're only seeing him in minor appearances.
Fans may be left in the dark, wondering when this might happen but Marvel Studios appears to be holding its cards close as those seeking Hulk news are likely in for a surprise - although Marvel Studios has been in constant, open discussion, regarding future projects - in particular for a "Doomsday Movie" - a crossover project - that will showcase a new roster for the Avengers - but Marvel Studios is always adding to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (especially after the end of Phase 4 and those projects which took audiences through a slew of "multiverse-style" events). Phase 6 is going to continue with those same ambitions and will make use of this iconic, yet incredibly powerful character - adding a layer of intrigue that might draw in millions.
Why is Marvel Introducing Ultron Again?
Ultron was introduced as a significant, though a brief character in Avengers: Age of Ultron - this time a much bigger and destructive force that may reshape the world.
While there were a slew of powerful Avengers - Vision (as the Vision series will likely bring back Paul Bettany - those fans of the character will find a compelling return), Scarlet Witch and those who have served to prevent an overall disastrous future. The series will focus on the character of Vision - who continues to evolve - as the show might serve as a perfect introduction, and another example, to see Ultron, Scarlet Witch and, perhaps more notably Bruce Banner, all coming together as the storyline in "Vision" unfolds - it might also become an important opportunity to expand upon the Multiverse, a universe that fans of Marvel Comics have often sought out to experience.
Could The Hulk Have Been In Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings?
The Hulk, has been a fan-favorite, even after the movie, Avengers: Infinity War had its big box office success and set the stage to make the most of Mark Ruffalo. In that film Mark Ruffalo made several appearances as Bruce Banner and his Hulk , playing a vital role, as he came to grips with the immense destructive force he is - however, since 2018. Fans haven’t had the chance to see much of him as they made the transition from Phase 4 to Phase 5 - an effort that's set in motion to move forward into Phase 6 in an effort to expand the Marvel Cinematic Universe
As it has evolved, those Marvel Studios movies - particularly those focusing on characters such as Shang-Chi (the main character in Shang-Chi and the Legend of The Ten Rings - who continues to emerge as an iconic hero in his own right). His introduction was met with high praise and applause by Marvel Comics fans and was, as many had anticipated. In contrast, this has been an event that hasn’t quite seen Bruce Banner’s appearance. The storyline that was delivered was centered on Shang-Chi as the hero - showcasing a new range of powerful and influential characters, such as "the Ten Rings".
Is the Hulk Ever Expected to Appear in Upcoming Movies?
With Phase 6 coming to a head - those fans will have to wait until later in the year (2023) for the announcement of the next Avengers movie.
There is always speculation about the future of Marvel Studios' production pipeline and their upcoming films. But there’s also buzz that a "Doomsday Movie", with a large cast (those who have made those appearances in the Live-Action MCU and are familiar with Mark Ruffalo’s return as Bruce Banner), will be produced for a release during Phase 6, giving audiences those epic-scale events, including Avengers' battle sequences.
