9: The Incredible Hulk
This is probably higher on the list than most people would place The Incredible Hulk, but as the red-headed stepchild of the MCU, I find it endearing. First off, I like how it begins with Banner already on the run (the redone origin in the credits nonwithstanding). It’s a thematic link to the 2003 Hulk (a reviled film that, like Daredevil, I also find endearing) and a good starting point for our hero: hunted and seeking to rid himself of the Hulk.
Norton is a good Banner in a different way than Ruffalo, whose awe-shucks attitude makes the character lovable. Rather, Norton is tormented but modulated, in control and yet a live wire. The balancing act that came off as dull surprise in Eric Bana is electric with Norton. The film has a small number of characters, which keeps it focused. Tim Roth is an entertaining if simple villain while William Hurt and Liv Tyler class up the joint. While the climax is certainly just a CGI slugfest, I was invested in Banner’s decision to become the Hulk to fight the Abomination. That can make all the difference.
