Hulk #2 Review – A Pleasant Surprise

While Civil War II was a bit disappointing, especially when compared to the original, it did manage to substantially shake up the Hulk universe. With Banner gone and She-Hulk almost joining him at the hands of Thanos, Jennifer Walters has quickly become one of the more interesting characters in the current Marvel Universe.

Spoilers incoming for Hulk #2, so you’ve been warned.

Most people spend parts of their day trying to suppress their hurt and anger, but few have the ability to take out whole city blocks when their tempers flare. For Walter’s it’s an everyday concern, and that constant edge is what made Bruce Banner so compelling. She-Hulk’s previous hit series used humor and odd circumstances as it’s focal point, and did so to great success. With this new series, writer Mariko Tamaki has found a nice balance of both.

As with any character attempting to deal with grief and pain, Walters is on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. She isn’t content to just play the victim, though, and you quickly find yourself rooting for her in this battle to find a place where the world stops crumbling down around her.

Her previous series always featured some curious clients, and her first one here is no exception. Fighting for people who can’t win their battles alone was always one of the best parts of her character, and coupled with her own internal battles makes for some compelling reading.

The biggest drawback here is the art. Nico Leon and Dalbor Talajic’s work is perfectly adequate for the story they’re telling, but it doesn’t leave the biggest lasting impression. There are some highlights, like the office scene where Walters is struggling to retain control or pretty much anything out in the city streets. The city feels alive with movement, but the majority of the book just doesn’t meet that same bar.

Art issues aside, though, Hulk is a pleasant surprise and provides something for longtime She-Hulk fans and those who are looking for a great hopping-on point to the Marvel Universe.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars.

You can read the official description below.

HOW CAN YOU FIGHT THE MONSTER WHEN THE MONSTER IS YOURSELF? As JEN continues to struggle with the HULK (and anger) within herself, her newest client struggles with her own dark secrets. What happens when a terrified recluse is forced into the world against her will? When fear is pushed into the light? Can Jen reconcile the two halves of herself in time to help her client?

Written By: Mariko Tamaki

Art By: Nico Leon and Dalibor Talajic

Colored By: Matt Milla

Lettered By: VC’s Cory Petit

Hulk #2 is in stores now.

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