It’s hard to imagine a world where Mark Ruffalo didn’t take over for Edward Norton as Bruce Banner, aka the Hulk, for 2012’s “Avengers.” Ruffalo has played the character for over a decade and has been an integral part of the most successful franchise in history. And it would appear like it’s not ending anytime soon. But don’t expect Ruffalo to get his own solo ‘Hulk’ film.
Speaking at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Mark Ruffalo was interviewed about his career and work. As you might expect, the topic of Marvel Studios and the Hulk came up. The actor did his typical thing where he explained how he got the role after Norton didn’t return and how he’s super grateful for the opportunities that have come about because of his Marvel work. Then, he explained how he is able to help shape the story of Bruce Banner, thanks to Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, while also reiterating that a “Hulk” feature film isn’t coming anything soon.
“[Feige asked,] ‘What would you do if you had a standalone “Hulk” movie?’ Well, I’d like to take him from this raging maniac to this kind of integrated character,” said Ruffalo. “[He replied,] ‘Ok, we’ll do that over the course of four movies.’”
The “integrated” version of Hulk that he’s talking about is the smart Hulk that was seen in “Avengers: Endgame” and “She-Hulk.” Apparently, that all happened because he wanted to see the change in the character. Of course, when he mentioned the idea of a standalone “Hulk” film, Ruffalo was asked if the rule about no solo films for him is actually still in effect.
“As far as I know. I mean, I could talk more about it, but I’ve been told not to,” said Ruffalo.
If you’re familiar with the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding the “Hulk” franchise, you probably are aware that the rights for the character still reside with Marvel Studios. However, if the studio wanted to make a “Hulk” movie, the studio would have to bring along Universal as a partner. That’s why the studio hasn’t been interested in that idea, especially after Marvel was purchased by Disney before “Avengers.” That said, this has been talked about for more than a decade now, so it’s quite possible that the rights issues have been taken care of, and Disney/Marvel just aren’t able to squeeze in a solo “Hulk” film.
READ MORE: Bob Iger Says Marvel Will Have “Reduced Volume & Output” & Claims Studio “Lost Focus”
However, it’s clear that Feige and Marvel want Ruffalo to be happy and to be able to see growth with his character. Thus, the idea of spreading a character arc over the course of several films in other franchises.
As for the future, Ruffalo did mention “Captain America: Brave New World.” (Though, it has to be said that even though it sounds like the actor confirms his involvement, reports have now surfaced that the actor is not involved at all. Apparently, he just misunderstood the question.)
“It’s going to be great,” said Ruffalo about the new ‘Captain America’ film. He played coy when pressed for more info and joked, “They literally have a drone that follows me around.”
As of now, it’s unclear when we’ll see Bruce Banner show up in a new film. We’ll just have to wait and see.