The Multiversal Hulk War: Could Eric Bana, Edward Norton, and Mark Ruffalo Face Off in the MCU?

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been expanding its multiverse concept in exciting new ways, leading to endless speculation about potential crossovers and epic battles between different versions of beloved characters. One concept that has captured the imaginations of Marvel fans is the idea of a Multiversal Hulk War, pitting three iconic versions of the Hulk—played by Eric Bana, Edward Norton, and Mark Ruffalo—against each other.

This concept taps into the MCU's recent success with multiverse storylines, such as the introduction of Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield, and Tom Holland's Spider-Men in Spider-Man: No Way Home. But could Marvel create a similar crossover event centered on the Hulk? And if so, what would it look like?

The Hulks: A Brief History
Eric Bana's Hulk (2003): Eric Bana portrayed Bruce Banner in Ang Lee's Hulk. This film, though not officially part of the MCU, was one of Marvel's early attempts at bringing the Hulk to the big screen. Bana's portrayal was introspective, focusing on Banner's inner turmoil and repressed emotions. The movie took a more psychological and artistic approach to the character, which set it apart from the typical superhero fare at the time.

Edward Norton's Hulk (2008): Edward Norton starred as Bruce Banner in The Incredible Hulk, a film that is officially part of the MCU, even though Norton was later replaced by Mark Ruffalo. Norton's version of the Hulk is often seen as more raw and intense, leaning into the physical and emotional struggles Banner faces as he tries to control the monster within. This version of the Hulk helped lay the groundwork for the MCU's take on the character.

Mark Ruffalo's Hulk (2012 - Present): Mark Ruffalo took over the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers (2012) and has since become the definitive Hulk in the MCU. Ruffalo's portrayal strikes a balance between Banner's intelligence and the Hulk's brute force, while also adding a touch of humor and relatability to the character. Over the years, we've seen his version evolve from the rage-fueled Hulk to the more controlled and thoughtful "Smart Hulk" in Avengers: Endgame.

A Multiversal Hulk War: How Could It Happen?
The idea of a Multiversal Hulk War is tantalizing because it offers the potential to explore the complexities of the Hulk character from multiple angles. Marvel Studios has already laid the groundwork for multiverse-related events, thanks to films like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and series like Loki and What If...? The upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars and Deadpool 3 are also set to delve deeper into the multiverse, bringing together different versions of characters across various timelines.

A Hulk-focused multiverse event could be triggered by the collision of different realities, perhaps caused by another multiversal incursion. With the Hulk being one of the most powerful beings in any universe, it’s easy to imagine a scenario where different versions of the Hulk clash, each one trying to assert dominance or survive in an increasingly unstable multiverse.
Possible Plotlines:
The Leader's Multiversal Plan: Imagine The Leader, one of Hulk’s most notorious villains, orchestrating a multiversal collision to create the ultimate Hulk. His goal could be to harvest the gamma energy from various Hulks across different realities, pitting them against each other to determine which version is the strongest. This storyline would allow for epic battles between the Bana, Norton, and Ruffalo Hulks, while also diving deep into the psychology of Bruce Banner.

World War Hulks: Inspired by the World War Hulk comic arc, this multiversal event could see the Hulks waging war on one another due to misunderstandings, manipulation, or even competing desires to save their own realities. Each version of the Hulk brings something unique to the table: Bana's Hulk might be more introspective and strategic, Norton's Hulk could be raw and unfiltered rage, while Ruffalo's Smart Hulk would offer a combination of brain and brawn.

Multiversal Redemption: Another possibility is a redemption arc for the various Hulks. Rather than a war of destruction, the storyline could explore the idea of these different Hulks coming together to confront their shared trauma and find a way to coexist. This could culminate in an epic team-up against a common enemy, such as Maestro, the future version of the Hulk who has become a villain in the comics.



Fan Appeal: Why We Want to See It
The prospect of a Multiversal Hulk War appeals to fans for several reasons. First, it taps into the nostalgia factor, allowing audiences to revisit Eric Bana and Edward Norton's portrayals of the Hulk, which have become cult favorites over the years. Seeing these actors reprise their roles would be a huge draw, similar to how fans celebrated the return of Maguire and Garfield as Spider-Man.

Second, the Hulk's character has always been about internal conflict—Bruce Banner constantly struggles with his dual nature, trying to reconcile his humanity with the unstoppable force of the Hulk. A multiversal crossover would amplify this conflict, allowing different versions of Banner to confront one another and explore the nuances of their shared experiences.

Finally, the multiverse concept itself opens up infinite possibilities. Marvel has shown that it’s willing to take risks and experiment with its storytelling, and a Multiversal Hulk War would be a bold and exciting direction for the MCU to take. It would also give Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk a new challenge, pushing him in ways we haven’t seen before.

Conclusion
While there has been no official word from Marvel Studios about a Multiversal Hulk War, the idea is certainly within the realm of possibility given the MCU's current trajectory. Whether it's a full-blown battle between Hulks or a deeper exploration of Bruce Banner's inner turmoil, fans would undoubtedly flock to theaters to see Eric Bana, Edward Norton, and Mark Ruffalo share the screen in an epic multiverse event.

With Avengers: Secret Wars on the horizon and the multiverse expanding across various Marvel properties, now is the perfect time for Marvel to consider bringing the Hulks together for one unforgettable showdown. The only question is: Are we ready for the gamma-powered chaos that would ensue?

What are your thoughts on a Multiversal Hulk War? Do you think Eric Bana, Edward Norton, and Mark Ruffalo could coexist in the same film? Let us know in the comments below!