Hey fellow Hulk fans, let’s get ready to unleash the green beast within! Let’s explore Hulk’s journey through the movies in order, from a humble scientist to a powerful warrior fighting for justice.
Hulk’s tale has captivated audiences since 1962 with three standalone films: “Hulk” (2003), “The Incredible Hulk” (2008), and “Hulk Vs.” (2009). In this blog you will get a complete list of Hulk movies, we will go in deep starting from way back in the 1970’s.
Hulk also appeared in numerous Marvel films. Join me as we explore why Hulk’s cinematic journey is so compelling, and remember to watch The Hulk Movies in Order in France to appreciate his story fully.
You can watch all the Hulk movies on platforms like Plex, Disney Plus(all MCU), and Amazon Prime. And if you are in geo-restricted zones, deploying my trusted ExpressVPN is the best and easiest way to get past all restrictions.
The Incredible Hulk (1977) – The World Witnesses a Force Beyond Imagination
IMDb: 6.9/10
Duration: 1h 35m
Director: Kenneth Johnson
Cast: Bill Bixby, Susan Sullivan, Jack Colvin
The first ever movie of Hulk shows Dr. David Bruce Banner, a dedicated scientist haunted by his wife’s tragic death, conducting gamma radiation research at the Culver Institute in Sacramento, California. Classic line “Mr. McGee, don’t make me angry. You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry.”
An accidental overdose alters his DNA, causing him to transform into a seven-foot-tall, 330-pound, mindless green creature—the Hulk. This dual existence of intellect and primal rage sets the stage for a tale of identity, loss, and redemption. Great start to Hulk movies in order!
Fascinating facts
- “The Lonely Man” is the most iconic and the piece most associated with the series. A sole, lamenting piano piece that plays over the closing credits
- It marks the first on-screen appearance of General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, played by William Hurt.
- Lou Ferrigno, a professional bodybuilder, brought the Hulk to life physically. His imposing presence and green makeup became memorable.
Iconic scene
As Banner steps out of his car in the rainstorm to inspect a flat tire, he notices the hubcap missing from the wheel. Moments later, just before injuring himself with the lug wrench (triggering his first Hulk transformation), he is shown removing the hubcap.
Trailer :
The Return of the Incredible Hulk (1977) – Benton’s relentless pursuit of a cure
IMDb: 7.0/10
Duration: 1h 40m
Director: Alan J. Levi
Cast: Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Jack Colvin
Now operating under the alias Benton, Banner remains a fugitive, relentlessly pursuing a cure for his transformation. However, fate intervenes when he unwittingly becomes embroiled in a treacherous scheme involving a vulnerable young girl. As unscrupulous relatives circle, seeking an inheritance, Banner’s struggle intensifies.
Fascinating facts:
- The military program responsible for creating the Abomination is referred to as Weapon Plus
- Filming location California
- The second pilot movie was released just 3 weeks after the first one; this explained the Hulk’s character better to the audience who had not read the comics.
Watch along with audio commentary – Recommended as it was a unique experience!
Trailer:
The Incredible Hulk Returns (1988) – Hulk clashes with the mighty Viking warrior
IMDb: 5.7/10
Duration: 1h 40m
Director: Nicholas Corea, Bill Bixby
Cast: Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Jack Colvin
Available on Plex
Banner has prevented his transformation from occurring for over seven years, and he believes he’s found a cure for his condition. But an unexpected arrival disrupts his plans: the arrogant Viking warrior Thor.
Together, they battle criminals seeking Banner’s invention. Sequel to the 1970s Incredible Hulk TV series. Hulk movies in order list continues with an incredible addition.
Fascinating facts:
- The only Hulk film where we see Thor and Loki together
- This is the final appearance of Jack McGee.
- Unlike the comics, Blake does not transform into Thor but summons him like a genie.
Iconic scene:
Thor and Hulk first ever fight – Here
Trailer:
The Trial of the Incredible Hulk (1989) – In the courtroom of justice, Hulk faces his ultimate trial.
IMDb: 5.8/10
Duration: 1h 40m
Director: Bill Bixby
Cast: Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Marta DuBois
Available on Plex
Dr. David Banner, operating under the alias David Belson, remains on the run after the events of the previous TV film. Seeking anonymity, he heads toward a bustling city, unaware it’s under the grip of crime boss Wilson Fisk. But this city also harbors a mysterious vigilante—the black-clad Daredevil.
When Fisk’s henchmen assault a woman on a subway train, Banner witnesses the chaos and becomes the Hulk. Arrested and wrongly charged, he awaits trial. Blind defense attorney takes up his case, determined to prove his innocence. Fisk’s sinister plans involve abducting the victim from protective custody.
Fascinating facts:
- Incredible Hulk creator Stan Lee’s uncredited cameo here was his first of his 37 cameos in Marvel Universe movies
- The movie was intended to be a backdoor pilot for a possible NBC Daredevil series (which did not happened)
- It was filmed in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
If you wish to deep dive into the comic world of Hulk, then this is a great read – Hulk incarnations
Trailer:
The Death of the Incredible Hulk (1990) – Fate of Banner hero or monster?
IMDb: 5.7/10
Duration: 1h 35m
Director: Bill Bixby
Cast: Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Elizabeth Gracen
Available on Amazon
This is my favorite amount, the pre-2000 Hulk! Banner infiltrates a research facility seeking a cure for his gamma-induced transformation. As secrets unravel and danger looms, Pratt, a fellow scientist, discovers the accuracy of Banner’s formula corrections. Hulk movies in order per 2000’s era end here.
Fascinating facts:
- Initially, this was planned to include She-Hulk, with the intention that it would spawn a She-Hulk TV series
- The bank teller is played by Ferrigno’s wife, Carla
- This is the last of three revival TV movies from the 1978–1982 television series The Incredible Hulk
Trailer:
Hulk Movies Chronological order
See Hulk’s story unfold in order, from standalone films to his place in the MCU, Hulk movies in order Marvel.
Chronological orders to watch the pre-2000’s era of Hulk:
Chronological orders to watch the modern era of Hulk, including the MCU, animated:
- Hulk Vs. (2009)
- Hulk (2003)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- The Avengers (2012)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
- Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (2006)
- Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of the Panther (2006)
- Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008)
- Iron Man 3 (2013)
- Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes Unite (2013)
- Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher (2014)
- Lego Marvel Super Heroes: Avengers Reassembled (2015)
- Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell (2016)
- LEGO Marvel Super Heroes: Black Panther – Trouble in Wakanda (2018)
- Planet Hulk (2010)
Note: this is my recommendation on how to watch it; many movies stand alone, while most are not part of the MCU. Marvel’s Hulk is a powerful, iconic character whose journey unfolds through standalone films and the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe, highlighting his role among superheroes.
Chronological orders to watch the MCU Hulk:
- Hulk (2003)
- The Incredible Hulk (2008)
- The Avengers (2012)
- Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
- Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
- Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
- Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Note: Hulk 2003 and The Incredible Hulk 2008 brought back the Hulk to the big screen, but they both are not part of the MCU.
Hulk Timeline Explained
A must-watch as it explains the Hulk evolution from 1977- 2022
Hulk (2003) – Unleash the Beast Within.
IMDb: 5.6/10
Duration: 2h 18m
Director: Ang Lee
Cast: Eric Bana, Jennifer Connelly, Sam Elliott
Available on Hulu
Dr. David Banner delves into genetic research to enhance human DNA. Despite Colonel Thaddeus Thunderbolt Ross’s strict prohibition on human experimentation, David takes a daring step: he experiments on himself. When his son, Bruce, inherits his mutant DNA, David begins a quest for a cure.
But a fateful lab accident involving gamma radiation transforms Bruce into the colossal green-skinned Hulk whenever emotions run high. Now, pursued by the U.S. military, Bruce faces off against his biological father, who harbors ominous intentions
Fascinating facts:
- Budget: $137 million – Gross Revenue: $245.36 million
- Marvel Studios reacquired the film rights to the character, and they put a sequel to the film into development
Critics Consensus:
Praised for its style and dramatic depth, it was criticized for “too much talking and not enough smashing.” The film delves into themes like atomic anxiety and childhood trauma, setting it apart from typical superhero fare.
Trailer:
Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (2006) – Saving the world, one enemy at a time.
IMDb: 6.6/10
Duration: 1h 12m
Director: Curt Geda, Steven E. Gordon, Bob Richardson
Cast: Justin Gross, Grey Griffin, Michael Massee
Available on Amazon
Buckle up, folks—it’s a cosmic showdown! this: World War II, Nazis, and a super-soldier named Steve Rogers—better known as Captain America. But wait, there’s a twist! Those Nazis? Not your run-of-the-mill variety. Nope, they’re shape-shifting extraterrestrials led by the enigmatic Herr Kleiser.
A missile mishap sends Rogers into icy waters; everyone assumes he’s fish food. Fast forward seventy years, and guess who’s back? Yep, Captain America thawed out and ready to rumble. And guess who’s cooking up a cure for the Hulk? None other than Bruce Banner himself using his blood.
Fascinating facts:
- “Ultimate Avengers” is a loose adaptation of the Ultimate Marvel comic book limited series “The Ultimates.”
- The film explores the origins of the Avengers and their battle against the Chitauri
Easter eggs:
- Keep an eye out for nods to the original comic book source material and hidden references to other Marvel characters throughout the film.
Trailer:
Ultimate Avengers 2: Rise of the Panther (2006) – The Earth’s mightiest heroes must reunite to save humanity
IMDb: 6.5/10
Duration: 1h 13m
Director: Will Meugniot, Dick Sebast, Bob Richardson
Cast: Justin Gross, Grey Griffin, Michael Massee
Available on Amazon
T’Challa, the Prince of Wakanda, returns home to chaos. Alien invaders—the Chitauri—threaten his kingdom. But wait, there’s more! Herr Kleiser, that shape-shifting troublemaker, offed T’Challa’s father and now craves Wakanda’s vibranium.
Enter Captain America, the Avengers, and a cosmic showdown. Thor’s a no-show (he’s got premonitions), and the Hulk? Well, he’s got his own green agenda, but later joins to fight the aliens invaders. As the fate of Wakanda and Earth hangs in the balance, it’s time to suit up!
Fascinating facts:
- The film introduces us to Wakanda, a nation rich in vibranium—the rare metal that Captain America’s shield is made of.
- After the battle, the Avengers celebrate in tribute to Giant-Man (Hank Pym).
Critics Consensus:
T’Challa, the newly crowned Black Panther, faces off against shape-shifting Chitauri invaders with Captain America by his side. Amidst vibranium battles and cosmic showdowns, this animated gem keeps fans on the edge of their seats
Trailer:
Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008) – The children of heroes are the future!
IMDb: 6.2/10
Duration: 1h 18m
Director: Jay Oliva, Gary Hartle
Cast: Noah Crawford, Brenna O’Brien, Aidan Drummond
Available on Amazon Prime
Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow thrusts us into a world where the original Avengers have fallen. Ultron’s malevolence reigns supreme, leaving Earth defenseless. But wait! Captain America, in a final act of heroism, entrusts Iron Man with a vital mission: safeguard the Avengers’ children.
James Rogers, Torunn, Henry Pym Jr., Azari, and Hawkeye—each a legacy of their legendary parents—must rise. Their refuge? A hidden Arctic stronghold. Their purpose? To protect the future, wield their inherited powers, and honor their parents’ legacy. These young heroes step in as Ultron’s robotic army looms.
Fascinating facts:
- The film introduces a new generation of heroes, each inheriting their parents’ abilities.
- It explores themes of legacy, sacrifice, and the passing of the torch.
- Despite being an animated feature, it delves into darker and more emotional territory.
Iconic Scene:
- The moment when the Avengers’ children confront Ultron and awaken the Hulk to defeat him is particularly memorable.
- The film’s climax showcases their determination and courage, proving that the next generation is ready to step up
Trailer:
The Incredible Hulk (2008) – You’ll like him when he’s angry
IMDb: 6.6/10
Duration: 1h 52m
Director: Louis Leterrier
Cast: Edward Norton, Liv Tyler, Tim Roth
Available on Disney Plus
Picture this: Dr. Bruce Banner, the genius scientist, tinkering away in his lab. But fate has other plans. A gamma radiation oopsie turns him into a green rage monster whenever he’s ticked off. Yep, you heard that right—Hulk smash!
Banner seeks a cure while evading General Thaddeus Ross, who wants to weaponize the Hulk. Along the way, Banner reunites with his love interest, Betty Ross, and faces off against another gamma-irradiated adversary, Emil Blonsky, who becomes the Abomination.
Fascinating facts:
- The Incredible Hulk is part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). It’s the second entry in the entire MCU, following Iron Man
Easter eggs:
- The serum used on Emil Blonsky to enhance his strength and agility is based on the super soldier serum that created Captain America during World War II.
- Mr. Harrington: Martin Starr cameos as a student at Culver University. Years later, he becomes a teacher at the Midtown School of Science and Technology, as seen in Spider-Man: Homecoming.
- S.H.I.E.L.D. Presence: The S.H.I.E.L.D. logo can be seen on a computer used by Bruce Banner.
- Assembling a Team: Tony Stark appears at the end of the film, discussing a team being put together—a reference to the Avengers Initiative.
Critics Consensus:
The Incredible Hulk” might not hit every mark for Marvel’s ardent fans, but it packs enough explosive, green-tinted action to offset its weaker storyline.
Trailer:
Hulk Vs. (2009) – To save humanity, the Earth’s mightiest heroes must be stopped
IMDb: 6.9/10
Duration: 1h 22m
Director: Sam Liu, Frank Paur
Cast: Fred Tatasciore, Matthew Wolf, Graham McTavish
Available on Amazon Prime
Listen up, fellow comic aficionados! Hulk Vs. might not be a box office blockbuster, but it’s got enough gamma-fueled action to make any Hulk fan fist-pump.
In the wilds of the Canadian wilderness, the big green behemoth—none other than our beloved Hulk—is on a rampage. Trees tremble, rocks quake, and the air crackles with gamma energy. But who’s brave enough to stop this Hulk-sized chaos? None other than Wolverine himself. Claws out, bub!
Odin’s annual week of rest leaves Asgard vulnerable to attacks. This year, Loki and the Enchantress kidnap Bruce Banner, separating him from the Hulk, whom Loki then controls.
After a destructive battle with Thor and the Hulk, they seek Hela’s help. She reunites Banner with the Hulk, saving Asgard from imminent destruction and returning them both to Earth.
Fascinating facts:
- This animated battle royale is part of a double feature called “Hulk Vs.” the other segment is “Hulk Vs. Wolverine”. Double the carnage, double the smash!
- Wolverine uncovers the truth! The Hulk is the alter ego of Dr. Bruce Banner.
Trailer:
Planet Hulk (2010) – Will he save or destroy their world?
IMDb: 6.7/10
Duration: 1h 21m
Director: Sam Liu, Frank Paur
Cast: Rick D. Wasserman, Lisa Ann Beley, Mark Hildreth
Available on Amazon Prime
Earth’s superhero community decides that our beloved Hulk is a ticking gamma bomb. So, they pack him off in a shuttle, aiming for a peaceful world. But cosmic mishaps occur, and Hulk awakens mid–flight. Hulk crash-lands on Sakaar, a brutal world where gladiator battles are the rage.
Think colossal monsters, alien warriors, and epic showdowns. Hulk’s new job description? Gladiator extraordinaire. As Hulk navigates Sakaar’s treacherous terrain, he forms alliances, faces formidable foes, and grapples with redemption. Betrayal lurks around every gamma-infused corner.
Fascinating facts:
- This film was released by Lionsgate in Santa Monica California
- Planet Hulk joins the ranks of Marvel’s animated adaptations. It’s like a comic book with stunning visuals and rich storytelling come alive.
- In the original comic storyline, the alien Hulk faces was none other than the “Silver Surfer”. But in the film, “Beta Ray Bill” approaches the cosmic plate.
Trailer:
The Avengers (2012) – You’ll like him when he’s angry.
IMDb: 8.0/10
Duration: 2h 23m
Director: Joss Whedon
Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson
Available on Disney Plus
Earth’s mightiest heroes must unite to fight as a team and stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity. Loki, Thor’s adopted brother, teams up with the Chitauri Army, using the Tesseract’s power to travel from Asgard to Earth.
Nick Fury, director of S.H.I.E.L.D., assembles the Avengers—Iron Man, Captain America, The Hulk, Thor, Black Widow, and Hawkeye—to save the world from Loki’s powerful invasion. Watch Hulk’s journey within the MCU by viewing Marvel in order!
Fascinating facts:
- Box office: $1.519 billion
- The post-credits scene introduces the Mad Titan Thanos, setting the stage for future MCU appearances.
- The Joint Dark Energy Mission Facility and Project PEGASUS, where they study the Tesseract, play a role in Captain Marvel.
Critics Consensus:
Thanks to a well-crafted script that emphasizes the human side of its heroes and a series of dynamic, superpowered scenes, “The Avengers” lives up to its expectations and sets a new benchmark for Marvel films.
Trailer:
Iron Man 3 (2013) – Unleash the power behind the armor
IMDb: 7.1/10
Duration: 2h 10m
Director: Shane Black
Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Guy Pearce, Gwyneth Paltrow
Available on Disney Plus
Iron Man 3 continues Tony Stark’s journey. Struggling with anxiety and PTSD after the events of The Avengers, Tony faces his most formidable enemy yet: the Mandarin. It is the seventh film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but the first in Phase 2!
The film explores technology, teamwork, and personal growth themes, all while delivering stunning visual effects that set the stage for future events in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Fascinating facts:
- Box office: $1.215 billion, highest grossing solo in the MCU.
- The film will be shot in North Carolina, Miami, Florida and China.
- The two people who try to talk to Tony on the dance floor are Ho Yinsen (whom Tony was trapped with in the first Iron Man movie) and Dr. Wu (a nod to a character from the comics)
Easter eggs:
- Tony begins the narration with the line, “A famous man once said, ‘we all create our own demons.’” This is a direct reference to the seminal Iron Man comic story “Demon in a Bottle”, where Tony’s life unravels due to his drinking.
- The song playing during the Y2K party flashback is Eiffel65’s “Blue.”
Critics Consensus:
“Iron Man 3” delivers a clever and fun-filled journey, thanks to its captivating lead actor, thrilling action sequences, and unexpected twists, making it a standout entry in the Marvel series.
Trailer:
Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United (2013) – Invincible Iron Man and Incredible Hulk join forces!
IMDb: 4.6/10
Duration: 1h 11m
Director: Leo Riley
Cast: Adrian Pasdar, Fred Tatasciore, Dee Bradley Baker
Available on Disney Plus
In this direct-to-video animated film by Marvel Animation, Iron Man and Hulk join forces for the first time ever. Their mission? To face off against the ultimate enemy: Zzzax, a seemingly invincible, energy-devouring monster threatening to destroy the planet. This unlikely pairing of Avengers becomes mankind’s only hope.
Fascinating facts:
- The Hulk humorously claims that Iron Man owes him twice. This refers to an iconic moment from The Avengers film, where Hulk saves Iron Man after the latter runs out of power.
- The film introduces a new process called the “2-D wrap”, which combines traditional animation with computer scanning to give texture, weight, and expressive facial features to the characters and backgrounds1
Debating on which superhero is the best, you can find the answer now! A must-read: Why I Think Iron Man Is The Best Super Hero!
Trailer:
Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher (2014) – A rematch of heroic proportions.
IMDb: 5.7/10
Duration: 1h 23m
Director: Ken’ichi Shimizu
Cast: Jennifer Carpenter, Brian Bloom, John Eric Bentley
Available on Amazon Prime
Marvel and anime fans, prepare for a thrilling ride! In this Japanese superhero film, the Punisher apprehends black market arms dealer Cain, clashing with Black Widow on a mission to stop a larger terror plot.
Cain escapes, and S.H.I.E.L.D. offers Punisher freedom if he teams up with Black Widow to dismantle the terrorist organization LEVIATHAN. In Slovenia, they find a lab turning spies into super-powered soldiers by Orion.
During explosive battles, Black Widow reunites with her ex-lover Elihas Starr, now working for Leviathan, and creating super-soldier serums to prove his worth. Action and drama collide, making this a must-watch!
Fascinating facts:
- Cain’s cell phone emits a flash of light that causes Punisher to lose time. This clever twist allows Cain to escape, adding an unexpected intrigue to the story.
Avengers Confidential:
It offers an exciting crossover between Marvel and anime, featuring dynamic action sequences and an intriguing storyline. While the film’s pacing might sometimes feel uneven, its blend of thrilling battles, unexpected twists, and character-driven drama provides an engaging experience.
Trailer:
Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) – A new age begins
IMDb: 7.3/10
Duration: 2h 21m
Director: Joss Whedon
Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo
Available on Disney Plus
Hey, fellow Marvel enthusiasts! Ready for an action-packed ride? In Avengers: Age of Ultron, Tony Stark and Bruce Banner team up to reboot an old peacekeeping program, but things take a dark turn. The program’s A.I., Ultron, goes rogue, plotting to wipe out humanity.
Now, our beloved Avengers must band together to thwart this terrifying threat. But it’s not just about saving the world; they also face personal struggles, meet new allies like Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch, and go head-to-head with a formidable enemy.
Viewing Marvel movies order reveals Hulk’s narrative arc, from solo films to key roles in the MCU.
Fascinating facts:
- Scarlett Johansson filmed her scenes while pregnant, leading to multiple stunt doubles for her character, Black Widow
- Stan Lee appears as a war veteran at the Avengers Tower party, delivering his signature “Excelsior!”
- New characters like Quicksilver, Scarlet Witch, and Vision make their MCU debut.
- Box office: $1.403 billion
Easter eggs:
- I’ve Got No Strings: Ultron sings this tune from Disney’s Pinocchio.
- Ultron’s red cloak pays homage to his debut in Avengers #54 as the Crimson Cowl. Additionally, the Iron Legion drone numbered #5 becomes Ultron, a nod to Ultron-5 from the comics.
Critics Consensus:
Avengers: Age of Ultron is a lively and visually striking sequel that, despite feeling a bit crowded at times, generally hits the mark. It reintroduces the large cast from the first film, adds new characters, and unveils a formidable new villain, Ultron.
Trailer:
Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell (2016) – A rematch of heroic proportions
IMDb: 5.4/10
Duration: 1h 15m
Director: Mitch Schauer
Cast: Fred Tatasciore, Liam O’Brien, Jesse Burch
Available on Amazon Prime
Doctor Strange and the Hulk battle rampaging monsters in New York, which turn out to be teens trapped in dreams and transformed into their deepest fears. Strange takes Hulk into the Dream Dimension to confront the malevolent Nightmare.
While the Howling Commandos (including Man-Thing, Vampire by Night, Warwolf, and Minotaur) assist in containing the monsters. Banner and Hulk split their journey, with Banner using a dream version of Iron Man’s Hulkbuster armor. Magic, demons, and Marvel heroes collide for a thrilling ride!
Fascinating facts:
- The film was announced at the 2016 San Diego Comic-Con, while premiered at New York Comic con 2016.
- Hulk imagines himself in Iron Man’s Hulkbuster armor.
- A scene reminiscent of Spider-Man’s web-swinging flight occurs.
- Wasp also makes an appearance.