The Hulk may be best known for smashing his way through the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but some of his most memorable and emotional arcs have been brought to life in animated movies. While Bruce Banner has appeared in dozens of animated Marvel series and ensemble movies, a select group of animated films has placed the Green Goliath at the center of the action. These movies span different Marvel continuities, but they all showcase key parts of Hulk’s character – from unstoppable rage to quiet tragedy.
Marvel’s animated universe has often operated outside of the traditional continuity of the live-action films or even the comics. These Hulk movies are mostly stand-alone or exist within self-contained timelines, yet they draw inspiration from iconic comic book storylines. While not all are directly connected, several films share a narrative thread, forming a loosely linked universe. Others are more anthology-style explorations of the character’s mythos. Watching these films in order of release provides the smoothest viewing experience, offering both development and variety in tone and storytelling.
9
Ultimate Avengers: The Movie (2006)
The Avengers ᴀssemble
Ultimate Avengers: The Movie is the first in the animated Marvel Universe line and serves as an origin story for a new version of the Avengers team. Based loosely on the Ultimates comic series, the film introduces Bruce Banner as a tortured genius trying to replicate the Super Soldier Serum. His transformation into the Hulk becomes a pivotal threat when he loses control, forcing the newly formed Avengers to confront him in a climactic battle.
Hulk isn’t the main character, but his role is crucial – he’s both an ally and the final antagonist. This portrayal balances his inner torment and his destructive power. It sets the stage for his continued presence in this animated continuity. Watching this movie first helps establish the context of Hulk’s strained relationship with humanity and the superhero community, giving viewers a glimpse into his darker potential.
8
Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow (2008)
The Next Avengers ᴀssemble
Set years after the fall of the original Avengers, Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow shifts focus to a new generation of young heroes – children of the legendary team. Although the spotlight is primarily on these new characters, the Hulk plays a surprising and significant role. Found living in seclusion, Hulk is portrayed as both older and more savage, having isolated himself from the world after past tragedies.
When Ultron threatens to wipe out the last hope for Earth’s defenders, Hulk returns to battle in epic form. His emotional re-entry into the fight, as well as his connection with Tony Stark and the young heroes, adds gravity to the storyline. This film expands Hulk’s role in the broader Marvel animated universe, showing his evolution and continued inner conflict. It’s best viewed after Ultimate Avengers for continuity in tone and character development.
7
Hulk Vs. (2009)
Hulk Vs Wolverine & Hulk Vs Thor
Hulk Vs. is a double-feature anthology film that gives fans two iconic Hulk battles: Hulk vs. Wolverine and Hulk vs. Thor. These segments aren’t connected to the previous animated films but are must-watches for any Hulk enthusiast. In Hulk vs. Wolverine, viewers see the raw savagery of Hulk pitted against Logan’s berserker rage in a bloodier-than-usual Marvel outing.
Meanwhile, Hulk vs. Thor explores the mythological side of the Marvel universe, thrusting Hulk into Asgard as Loki manipulates him into a battle with the God of Thunder. This anthology emphasizes Hulk’s status as an uncontrollable force and highlights the fear he instills in even the most powerful heroes. Both segments provide deep character moments and intense action, offering a look at different facets of Hulk’s personality – from his childlike innocence to his overwhelming fury.
6
Planet Hulk (2010)
Hulk Becomes A Gladiator
Planet Hulk adapts one of the most acclaimed Hulk storylines from the comics, transforming the usual Earthbound narrative into a cosmic gladiator epic. After being deemed too dangerous, Hulk is exiled from Earth by the Illuminati, crash-landing on the war-torn planet Sakaar. Stripped of his chance to return home, Hulk becomes a reluctant warrior, rising through the ranks to become a revolutionary hero and eventually a king.
The film blends sci-fi with fantasy, exploring Hulk’s desire for peace, connection, and idenтιтy beyond being a weapon. Unlike earlier films, Bruce Banner barely appears – this is Hulk’s story through and through. With emotional depth and epic battle sequences, Planet Hulk delivers one of the most nuanced portrayals of the character. Watching it last is ideal, as it represents a full-circle moment for Hulk, finally giving him purpose beyond destruction.
5
Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United (2013)
Hulk Teams Up With Iron Man
Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United was Marvel Animation’s first full-length CG-animated movie featuring the Hulk and Iron Man teaming up against the villainous Zzzax. The film is a buddy-action adventure where Hulk’s brute force and Tony Stark’s tech-savvy intellect must combine to stop a powerful energy creature. While the animation style received mixed reactions, the movie offers solid entertainment for younger audiences and those who enjoy seeing these two contrasting heroes work together.
This Hulk is less tortured and more quippy, reflecting a shift toward kid-friendly storytelling. Despite not being connected to previous Hulk-centric movies, it’s an accessible entry point that emphasizes teamwork and heroism over internal conflict. It’s best watched after Planet Hulk if you want a tonal shift from serious sci-fi drama to a more lighthearted, action-comedy approach. Think of it as the animated Hulk’s Saturday morning cartoon phase.
4
Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher (2014)
Hulk Supports His Fellow Heroes
Though not a Hulk-focused movie, Avengers Confidential: Black Widow & Punisher features Hulk in a brief but memorable role. This anime-style film centers on Natasha Romanoff and Frank Castle as they go undercover to stop a global threat involving stolen S.H.I.E.L.D. tech. Hulk only appears during the climactic third act, but his arrival delivers a powerful punch – literally.
Hulk’s fight scenes are visually stylized in a distinctly Japanese animation flair, offering a unique take on his brute-force combat style. While the movie is primarily about espionage and morally gray heroes, Hulk’s cameo reminds audiences of his destructive potential and his place in the broader Marvel animated landscape. This film is worth including in a Hulk marathon if you’re a completist or interested in alternate animation styles. It fits loosely after other animated Avengers projects and adds international flair to Hulk’s animated legacy.
3
Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United (2014)
Hulk Supports His Fellow Avengers
Iron Man & Captain America: Heroes United is a spiritual sequel to Iron Man & Hulk: Heroes United, though this time, Hulk only appears in a brief cameo. The story follows Iron Man and Cap as they take on the Red Skull and Taskmaster, blending humor, tech, and traditional superhero action. While Hulk isn’t a central figure, his brief appearance connects this film to the larger Heroes United continuity.
Hulk appears near the end of the movie, arriving in Antarctica just in time to help the eponymous heroes in their battles against Taskmaster and Red Skull. Viewers looking to track Hulk’s full animated history may want to include this movie, even if it’s more of a side note in his journey. The film keeps the same CG animation style, skewed toward a younger audience, with simple themes of trust and teamwork.
2
Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell (2016)
Hulk Teams Up With Doctor Strange
Hulk: Where Monsters Dwell is one of the more unique entries in Hulk’s animated filmography. Set during Halloween, this Marvel animated feature pairs Hulk with Doctor Strange and the Howling Commandos to battle supernatural threats invading the Dream Dimension. This film leans heavily into horror and fantasy, which gives Hulk a chance to interact with more mystical corners of the Marvel Universe. It’s also part of the Marvel Animation Universe established in Avengers ᴀssemble, making it feel like a special episode rather than a full cinematic story.
Nonetheless, Hulk is front and center, and his dynamic with Doctor Strange provides plenty of entertaining moments. This film is best viewed after the Heroes United movies, especially for fans interested in seeing Hulk operate outside the typical sci-fi or superhero context. It’s a spooky, fun side adventure that adds depth to Hulk’s animated versatility.
1
Lego Marvel (2013–Present)
Various Appearances
The Lego Marvel animated movies and specials offer a completely different tone for Hulk: playful, exaggerated, and filled with humor. Hulk has appeared in numerous Lego stories such as Lego Marvel Super Heroes: Maximum Overload (2013), Lego Marvel Avengers: Climate Conundrum (2020), and holiday-themed episodes. These aren’t meant to follow any continuity and are targeted at younger audiences, often parodying classic Marvel tales.
In these movies, the Hulk is usually a comedic powerhouse – quick to smash, slow to reason – which works perfectly in the Lego format. While these specials don’t dive deep into Hulk’s psyche, they show his lighter side and appeal to audiences who enjoy Marvel’s more whimsical interpretations. These adventures are perfect for a breather between heavier Hulk films, and for introducing younger viewers to Hulk’s big green charm in a safe, silly package.
Upcoming MCU Movies
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Thunderbolts*
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The Fantastic Four: First Steps
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Avengers: Doomsday
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Spider-Man: Brand New Day
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Avengers: Secret Wars