The Marvel Cinematic Universe fandom is buzzing with unbridled excitement thanks to a stunning fan-created teaser trailer for “World War Hulk (2026),” featuring Mark Ruffalo reprising his iconic role as Bruce Banner/Hulk. This viral concept piece, crafted with jaw-dropping visual effects and a gripping narrative tease, imagines one of the most destructive and emotionally raw storylines from Marvel comics finally smashing onto the big screen. Alongside Ruffalo, the trailer spotlights Harrison Ford as the formidable Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross and Karl Urban in a mysterious, intense new role, promising colossal battles, shattered alliances, and a Hulk unleashed like never before.
At its core, “World War Hulk” draws from the legendary 2007 comic event by Greg Pak and John Romita Jr., where Bruce Banner, betrayed and exiled to the brutal planet Sakaar, rises as a gladiator king only to return to Earth seeking vengeance. The story explodes with mythic fury: Hulk, hardened by loss and rage, wages war on those he holds responsible—former allies who banished him in a misguided attempt to protect the world. Cities crumble under his fists, heroes fall, and the planet teeters on the brink of annihilation. It’s not just destruction; it’s a profound exploration of betrayal, loyalty, and the monster within, turning the Jade Giant from savior to conqueror.
Mark Ruffalo’s return as Hulk/Bruce Banner is the emotional anchor. Since taking over the role in 2012’s The Avengers, Ruffalo has evolved the character from raging beast to Smart Hulk—a brilliant, integrated persona blending Banner’s intellect with Hulk’s strength. In this envisioned adaptation, the trailer hints at a devastating reversal: a betrayal shatters that fragile balance, pushing Banner beyond his limits and unleashing a primal, unstoppable rage. Ruffalo’s nuanced performance shines in imagined scenes of quiet torment contrasting explosive outbursts, reminding us why he’s become synonymous with the MCU’s most tragic hero.
Harrison Ford steps in as President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a role recast after William Hurt’s passing. Ford brings commanding gravitas to the military leader obsessed with controlling gamma-powered threats. In comics, Ross transforms into the Red Hulk, a raging counterpart fueled by hatred and power. The teaser tantalizes with hints of this evolution—Ross mobilizing global forces against the green menace, his stern resolve cracking under the weight of personal stakes. Ford’s intensity promises epic clashes, evoking his legendary action-hero pedigree while adding layers of moral complexity.
Karl Urban enters the fray in a fierce, enigmatic role tied deeply to Hulk’s past. Speculation runs wild: could he portray a hardened gladiator from Sakaar, a vengeful Warbound ally, or even a new antagonist with ties to Banner’s history? Urban’s gritty, no-holds-barred style—honed in films like The Boys and Dredd—fits perfectly, delivering raw physicality and brooding menace. His character’s mysterious connection amplifies the drama, setting up heartbreaking choices and brutal confrontations.
The fan trailer masterfully captures the storyline’s massive scale: Hulk crashing through urban landscapes, armies scrambling in vain, and heroes like Captain America, Thor, or Iron Man (in whatever form) forced to confront their former friend. Earth’s mightiest are outmatched, leading to mythic battles that test loyalties and redefine heroism. Amid the chaos, emotional depth prevails—Hulk’s rage stems from profound loss, making him a tragic figure rather than mindless destroyer. The narrative probes what happens when the protector becomes the threat, forcing characters to question their decisions and the cost of playing god.
Visually, the concept trailer is a triumph of fan creativity, blending seamless CGI with footage from past MCU entries. Hulk’s design evolves—bulkier, scarred from Sakaar battles, eyes burning with focused fury. Destruction feels visceral: skyscrapers toppling, shockwaves rippling through streets, and intimate moments of Banner’s isolation cutting through the spectacle. The score swells with thunderous percussion and haunting motifs, echoing Michael Giacchino’s MCU work while amplifying the epic scope.
This adaptation fits tantalizingly into the MCU timeline. Thor: Ragnarok borrowed heavily from “Planet Hulk,” showing Hulk as Sakaar’s champion, but skipped the full exile and return. Post-Endgame, Smart Hulk integrated into society, even fathering Skaar in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. A betrayal—perhaps tied to government overreach under President Ross or lingering fallout from multiversal events—could ignite the war. Upcoming films like Captain America: Brave New World introduce more Hulk family elements, priming the ground for gamma-fueled conflict.
Fans are obsessed, with the trailer racking up millions of views and sparking endless theories. Social media erupts with praise for its emotional weight and action promise, many declaring it the Hulk story the MCU owes Ruffalo after years in ensemble roles. Discussions rage over potential crossovers: Doctor Strange intervening, Wolverine clashing in a gamma vs. adamantium brawl, or ties to larger threats like Doctor Doom.
While distribution complexities have long delayed a solo Hulk film, the passion behind this concept proves the demand. “World War Hulk” embodies Marvel’s best—blending spectacle with heart, action with introspection. It’s a tale of rage as catharsis, betrayal as catalyst, and redemption as elusive hope. Hulk’s return as conqueror would challenge the Avengers’ unity, forcing soul-searching amid apocalypse.
As the MCU barrels toward multiversal climaxes, this envisioned epic feels timely. Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk deserves a spotlight showcasing his full fury and fragility. With Ford’s authoritative menace and Urban’s wildcard intensity, the cast promises fireworks. Cities may crumble on screen, but the real destruction is emotional—trust shattered, heroes broken, and one man’s pain echoing across the world.
The fan teaser has captured imaginations, proving “World War Hulk” isn’t just a comic classic—it’s a cinematic powerhouse waiting to erupt. Whether Marvel greenlights it or not, this vision of rage unbound, loyalty tested, and Earth under siege reminds us why Hulk remains Marvel’s most compelling force: strongest there is, but forever haunted by the man inside.