9 Comic Book Movies That Divided Critics And Fans
7. Hulk
An angsty psychological thriller isn’t quite what audiences expected with Ang Lee’s Hulk; they wanted something a good deal punchier. Instead, Lee used the Hulk as a metaphor for Bruce Banner’s fractured psyche, and his horrible relationship with his dad. A unique approach to be sure, but not one that meshed well with viewers.
Critics were more receptive to this take, with the movie receiving plenty of good notices. The fanbase wasn’t quite onboard though, with many feeling it was kind of dull and self-important. Plus the CG Hulk looked like he could use more gym time.
The muted response to the movie from fans grounded plans for a direct sequel, though apparently a straight-to-DVD effort starring David Duchovny was considered before Marvel rebooted it. The Ang Lee Hulk still has some passionate defenders, though, and ranks as one of the more interesting superhero movies of that early-00s era.