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Hulk (2003 film)

Hulk is a 2003 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Hulk is a 2003 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Directed by Ang Lee, it stars Eric Bana as Bruce Banner alongside Jennifer Connelly, Sam Elliott, Josh Lucas, and Nick Nolte. The film was released by Universal Pictures on June 20, 2003, and received mixed-to-positive reviews.

Premise

The film follows scientist Bruce Banner, who is exposed to gamma radiation and becomes the Hulk when under stress. The story adapts the Marvel Comics character into a live-action superhero film.

Production

Ang Lee directed the film from a screenplay by John Turman, James Schamus, and Michael France. It was produced through Marvel-related production companies and distributed by Universal Pictures.

Cast

Eric Bana plays Bruce Banner, with Jennifer Connelly as Betty Ross, Sam Elliott as General Ross, Josh Lucas as Glenn Talbot, and Nick Nolte as David Banner.

Release and reception

Hulk was released in the United States on June 20, 2003. It earned $245.3 million worldwide and received mixed-to-positive reviews, with recurring criticism of pacing and runtime.

Key facts

  • Hulk is a 2003 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Hulk.
  • The film was directed by Ang Lee and written by John Turman, James Schamus, and Michael France.
  • Eric Bana portrays Bruce Banner and the Hulk.
  • Universal Pictures released the film on June 20, 2003.
  • The film grossed about $245.3 million worldwide.
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Canadian context

The film was released theatrically in Canada as part of the same 2003 international rollout of a major Hollywood superhero title.

Frequently asked questions

Who directed Hulk (2003)?
Ang Lee directed Hulk (2003).
Who stars as Bruce Banner?
Eric Bana stars as Bruce Banner, who becomes the Hulk.
When was the film released?
It was released by Universal Pictures on June 20, 2003.
How much did Hulk (2003) earn worldwide?
The film grossed about $245.3 million worldwide.
Was the film well reviewed?
It received mixed-to-positive reviews, with praise for the performances and directing but criticism for its slow pace and length.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hulk_(film)
    Supports: Director, cast, release date, worldwide gross, and critical reception.
  2. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hulk
    Supports: Director, cast, distributor, runtime, release date, and genre.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0286716/
    Supports: Plot premise and main character transformation.