In a time when superhero animated series are becoming more and more comedic, the incredible hulk cartoon was one of the few that kept it straight. The show was created by Sage Cotugno, who sought to keep the series more dark and serious, unlike recent potrayals of the character.
While the cartoon was never as successful as it could have been, it still holds up well. In addition to its darker tone, the show was also able to bring in some great voice actors like Lou Ferrigno (70’s HULK).
The story follows Bruce Banner as he struggles with his condition that causes him to transform into the green behemoth whenever he gets angry. While he tries to find a cure for his problem, the military and his arch-nemesis Ross try to capture him. Along the way, he reunites with Betty Ross and Rick Jones.
Throughout the series, there is an emphasis on how Banner and She-Hulk have different fighting styles. While the Hulk is a rage machine that uses punches and grappling, She-Hulk is more acrobatic and relies on her speed. This shows that although the two are very different, they are also very symbiotic.
Another interesting aspect of the series is how it takes place in the Marvel universe. This was the first time that Marvel had created an animated universe that included all of its characters. In addition, the cartoon featured cameo appearances from other Marvel universe characters in its episodes.
In its first season, the cartoon introduced viewers to the grey hulk, who was previously only seen in a few cameo appearances. The grey hulk is a more pragmatic anti-hero that is willing to do whatever it takes to stop the bad guys, even if it means using methods that not everyone would agree with.
During the second season of the series, the writers shifted to a more comedy-based approach to the show. The change in style was mainly due to the fact that UPN wanted the show to appeal to a younger audience. In addition, the animation studio that was working on the show, New World Animation (formerly DePatie-Freleng), closed shortly after the second season.
The third season of the cartoon starts off with a bang when the incredible hulk cartoon shows that She-Hulk and the grey hulk are working together to help the public. This team-up is interrupted when the leader catches up with them and attempts to use a device to transfer the power of the hulk into himself. She-Hulk and the hulk are able to fend off this attempt, but the Leader escapes. Afterwards, the hulk and she-hulk begin to have more trust in each other. They also start to work better on their friendship with each other. However, a huge problem arises when the Leader starts to develop feelings for She-Hulk. As a result, the two have to decide who they should side with. This decision ultimately proves to be a life or death matter for both of them.