Russos Reveal Why Hulk Refused to Fight in Infinity War

6 years ago

Even if the trailers revealed that the Hulk himself will fight for Earth, the Jade Giant was absent from Infinity War. Other than the short fight with Thanos in the beginning of the film, the Hulk refused to come out and fight alongside the Avengers.

And it was pretty weird, given the events of Thor: Ragnarok. The seemingly fearless superhero, who took on the destroyer of Asgard himself was now afraid of someone. Given the fact that he gets more powerful the angrier he becomes, something didn't seem right.

And that even if Banner‘s decision to do it himself (fight the Black Order) was one of the best moments of the film.

So what happened? Why did Hulk refuse to hulk out? Was he really afraid of Thanos and his minions, just like the fans speculated? Or was it something else.

Infinity War is now available for digital download. And, with the copy of the film, the directors' and writers' audio commentary is also available. When Bruce Banner fails to transform for the first time, director Joe Russo says that this was just the beginning for Banner's issues.

And not because the Green Goliath was afraid - but because he was tired of playing hero whenever Banner wanted:

“People speculated whether there was some fear on the Hulk’s part about having to face Thanos again but I think ultimately what it is is that he’s tired of playing hero to Bruce Banner." (via Comic Book)

Basically, given the events of Thor: Ragnarok, the Hulk may have found out where he feels like home. And while saving the Earth and fighting alongside the Avengers could give him what he wants, maybe it is better for him to fight in the arena, cheered by fans and living as a king.

Before Ragnarok was released, we were announced that a three-movie story arc for this character was in place. Ragnarok saw Hulk being in control for most of the time. Infinity War saw Banner having to solve his problems by himself. It remains to be seen how this story arc will end with Avengers 4.