Heroes vs. Zeros

The Incredible Hulk
June 13

Critics and moviegoers agreed that Ang Lee’s 2003 version—starring Eric Bana and Jennifer Connelly—was not so incredible, so instead of a sequel we’re getting a complete do-over. Having already perfected the dual-personality routine in Fight Club, Edward Norton stars as both Bruce Banner and his jolly-green-giant alter ego. This time around, Hulk romps through Canadian locations and tussles with mutated soldier Emil Blonsky (Tim Roth, playing a character who was originally a mutated KGB agent) and the gruff General Ross (William Hurt). Liv Tyler plays love interest Betty Ross; the director is the relatively unvetted Louis Leterrier (The Transporter, Transporter 2).

GEEK SPEAK
Sean Funston, co-owner of Vigilante Press (1931 W Chicago Ave, 312-423-6774)

How much does Funston dig the guy in green? Try more than 300 Hulk comic books in his personal collection, several toys and numerous experiences sitting on Hulk-themed discussion panels at comic-book conventions. Maintaining a 20-year history of devotion to the angry antihero, Funston has carried his Hulk fascination into what he calls his “mom-and-pop comic-book shop,” which stocks four Hulk titles.

Reasons to be hopeful “They were all over the place with the first [Hulk film], whereas this one looks more focused on the actual character. People will be able to relate a little bit more to Bruce Banner.”

Possible pitfalls “My biggest complaint is the bad guy [played by Roth]. They completely changed the way he looks and his origin.”

Fascinating Hulk fact? “In the comic-book series, some Marvel heroes like Iron Man and Professor Xavier shot the Hulk into space, where he made friends with this hostile alien colony and impregnated their queen.”

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