‘Love and Thunder’ Isn’t Thor’s Worst Movie, ‘The Incredible Hulk Returns’ Is

by

Many Marvel fans consider Thor: Love and Thunder to be the weakest film in the Thor series. While Christian Bale’s villain, Gorr the God Butcher, and a cameo by the Guardians of the Galaxy were highlights, the movie was largely criticized for its subpar special effects and overly-silly humor. Originally intended to surpass the success of Thor: Ragnarok, it ultimately fell short and is now seen as part of a low point for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

While Love and Thunder is a definite improvement over some of the lesser-known Thor films, let’s talk about The Incredible Hulk Returns. It originally aired on NBC in 1988 and was a hit with audiences then, but it hasn’t aged well. This movie was actually Thor’s first live-action appearance, with Eric Allan Kramer – who many now know from Lodge 49 – playing the role. You can watch it if you’re curious, but don’t say we didn’t warn you if you end up wishing you hadn’t!

Banner Is on a Mission to be a ‘Better Man,’ But Thor Wont Let It Happen


NBC

Do you remember the famous scene in The Avengers where Thor hit Hulk with his hammer, Mjolnir? A similar moment happens in The Incredible Hulk Returns, but that’s really the high point of the movie. Before the fight, we meet Dr. David Banner – this version isn’t Bruce Banner – and he’s changed. Like many superheroes, he’s just tired of being a hero. Seriously, what’s with these guys? Don’t they realize how much we rely on them?

Dr. David Banner is a scientist at the Joshua-Lambert Research Institute, putting the finishing touches on a powerful new energy source called the Gamma Transponder. But Banner has a secret: he hopes to use the device to reverse the gamma radiation that turns him into the Hulk, allowing him to finally live a normal life with the woman he loves.

Banner’s carefully laid plans hit a snag when his ex-student, Donald Blake, shows up with a strange discovery: a hammer housing the spirit of Thor. Now, Thor won’t leave Blake alone, and he needs Banner’s help to get rid of the Norse god. Before they can even discuss a solution, Thor appears and provokes Banner, causing him to transform into the Hulk. This leads to a destructive fight that demolishes Banner’s lab and sets back his work on the Gamma Transponder. Eventually, Thor and Hulk become friends, but not before a lot of chaotic and over-the-top action.

‘The Incredible Hulk’ Disregards Asgardian Lore


NBC

While The Incredible Hulk Returns has some big problems, the biggest issue is how the characters are portrayed. The Thor in this story feels very different from the version fans know from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the comics. Honestly, the changes are jarring. Instead of the confident and charismatic Thor we’ve seen lately, he’s presented as a simple, unthinking force, almost like another Hulk.

To make matters even more problematic, this Thor isn’t actually a god or even from Asgard. He’s revealed to be a Viking king who died but wasn’t allowed into Valhalla because of his pride. He needs to prove himself through heroic deeds to finally earn entry. This storyline feels uninspired, closely mirroring the legendary trials of Heracles. Furthermore, this Thor is significantly less powerful; he can’t fly, and his hammer isn’t magically bound to only those deemed worthy by Odin.

Subscribe to the newsletter for more forgotten MCU deep dives

Unlock deeper takes on vintage comic adaptations, from cult misfires to fan-favorite triumphs—subscribe to the newsletter for thoughtful retrospectives, behind-the-scenes context, and analysis that enriches your view of superhero cinema.

By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s
Terms of Use
and
Privacy Policy
. You can unsubscribe anytime.

The movie embraces a deliberately silly, over-the-top ’80s style, filled with slapstick comedy, simple humor, and exaggerated acting. This lighter approach unfortunately weakens any emotional impact. Unlike recent superhero films with serious dramatic weight, this one keeps things fairly light. Don’t expect a complex villain like Gorr; Thor and Hulk are up against a much more basic group of enemies.

If you weren’t impressed with how Thor: Love and Thunder looked, you’ll really notice the low budget of The Incredible Hulk Returns. The costumes and overall style feel very dated – Thor looks like he stepped out of an Asterix comic book, and Hulk appears to be a man simply covered in green paint. Though actor Lou Ferrigno worked incredibly hard to bulk up for the role – gaining 45 pounds in just three months, according to the DVD commentary – the film definitely shows its age. After seeing it, you’ll likely have a newfound appreciation for the visuals and creativity in Thor 4.

Read More

2026-01-10 21:35