Yes, that’s right, #81 ran so late that #82–which was on time–came out a week later.
So whad’ja think?
PAD
47 comments on “OUT THIS WEEK–HULK #82”
It was your best Hulk story since returning to the book, and Jae Lee’s sublime Patrick Nagel-like artwork was as beautiful as it always is.
But if I can ask, what’s the current status of Hulk regarding his personality? From the past several issues, it seems like Joe Fixit. Is that it? Or a new one? Please someone let me know. 🙂
Pretty dámņ good. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, because the Jae Lee art I glanced at on the Hulk/Think mini-series didn’t look appealing to me at all, but he did a very nice job this issue.
Nice job.
This is the best single issue of a comic I’ve read all year long and is one the best hulk stories ever. Normally I’m not a fan of Jae Lee dark, moody yet strangely elegant art style but for this particular story it works very well. This issue could have been a run of the mill fill in as the female character is a one off character but the strength of the writing combined with art tailor made for this story makes this issue of the Incredible Hulk really special.
I think……my subscription copy hasn’t come yet.
MARVEL!!!!!!!!!!
I rather liked this issue, much more than the previous 5 part Nightmare story (which I think would have made a great mini series but just didn’t work as well in a regular series, I’m one of those guys that likes to keep real world events out of our little make believe worlds, sorry) Anyway, I liked the Hulk being somewhere we usually don’t see him (or any other Marvel characters) thanks for reminding us there’s a big world out there for these characters to visit. With all the mystic stuff is there any chance of Dr. Strange showing up? I always liked the way the characters played off each other.
Sadly, I’m not a big fan of Jae Lee’s style either but I must admit that the art matched the tone of the story very well. I don’t know if I’d like him to stay on as the regular artist but I think he made a good fill-in guy.
PAD, I can’t speak for others but I’m dying to have the Hulk defined a bit more. Is this more of a Joe Fixit personality? The moody Hulk who took over the Florida Keys? The “I’m Bruce Banner who can call forth my transformation but I’m still in control” Hulk? Or something a bit different?
Anyway loved the issue, hope there’s more like it on the way.
Hey anychance of Rick and Marlo showing back up?
I enjoyed this story greatly. I’ve always thought one major tragedy of life is the person out there who’s your absolute match, but you never meet.
Something this story does bring up, also, which I would like to see explored sometime, is why does The Hulk have such a strange relationship with magic? Why can he see astral forms? And why doesn’t magic work on him that well? (Like the various times Dr. Strange has tried, and failed, to change him back to Banner for good — outside of the obvious reason it would cut Hulk’s series really short?)
By the way, NPR’s Talk of the Nation Science Friday had a segment about gamma rays today. Yo might want to give it a listen on the website.
In a time when I’m teetering back and forth into comics trying to find something worth holding onto, I picked up Hulk this week and loved every second of it.
The art blew me away, especially Lee’s Hulk expressions.
I’m staying, no doubt!
Yeah, wow, I loved this issue. It hit me in the emotional neither regions for reasons I can’t quite articulate. Something about meeting that special someone at the wrong time really did it for me. That and the art was fantastic, I loved the ethereal look of Trica that became more hazy and unfocused as the issue went on, and the fog drenched art – gave it a mystical quality that enhanced the tragic story. And I’m seriously not blowing smoke here; it really worked for me. The last page is what did it for me. Don’t know why.
While I liked the last issue a lot, this one is gonna stick with me. While I can’t see this type of creepy tone sustaining the book for issues upon issues, as a one shot, its powerfully stuff.
Good job, PAD. No foolies.
Great story and it had the big plus of Jae Lee’s art.
I liked it better than the previous issues, but I still much prefer your old run when you wrote Hulk as a sitcom.
Mr. David,
Just finished reading Hulk #82 and I must say that it has been the story I’ve liked the most in all the time I’ve been reading your material.
The first person narrative captivates the reader and makes one part of the story. You create a wonderful character with Tricia with just a few lines of dialogue and then hit us with a sense of loss I could feel. It reminded me a little of the death of Jean DeWolff (I hope I have the spelling right). This issue is ideal for introducing new readers to the medium. One of the best stories I’ve read in a while (comics or narrative). Great ideas with the enemy sorcerors and magicians… very original. Mr. Lee’s artwork is wonderful, moody and fits right in with the mood you create. Congratulations on what I think to be your best work yet. The most I can add, is this: I loved it and Thank you.
Very nice issue – it reminded me of why I used to like Hellblazer so much.
Have you ever been offered that gig, and/or what would you think about writing the adventures of John Constantine?
Something this story does bring up, also, which I would like to see explored sometime, is why does The Hulk have such a strange relationship with magic? Why can he see astral forms? And why doesn’t magic work on him that well? (Like the various times Dr. Strange has tried, and failed, to change him back to Banner for good — outside of the obvious reason it would cut Hulk’s series really short?)
Both answers are out there, actually.
In Incredible Hulk #-1, written by PAD, it was explained that seeing astral forms was an ability the Hulk obtained through the subconscious wish to be able to see his dead father’s ghost coming for him. Y’see, Banner killed his father, and has repressed the memory, but some part of him remembers and can’t get past the feeling he should be on guard against a vengeance scheme from beyond the grave. Thus, he can also see Dr. Strange and Tricia from #82.
As an aside–the Hulk also has/had an apparently preternatural sense of the G-bomb test site, practically able to return there at will. The ability may or may not function anymore, but it too was explained (in Hulk #460) as not so much something supernatural, but that the Maestro, the Hulk’s future self who was sent through time and killed at ground zero of the G-bomb detonation that created the Hulk, was there the whole time, “calling” him back to the area so he could soak up more and more of the gamma from his body and eventually heal to plague the Hulk anew.
And why don’t cures stick, not just magical ones? It’s been hinted that some part of Banner just doesn’t want to be free. PAD had the Hulk exerting subconscious influence over Banner’s actions to overturn any cures that came his way (see #331, or Hulk Visionaries 1, for a sample).
Best,
~G.
I loved the ending of “Tempest Fugit” in #81. It had an interesting twist that could make fans of practically any era of the Hulk’s existence happy.
#82, the stand-alone story, was pretty cool as well. I’m glad to see that the Hulk was using some of those latent mystical abilities of his. It’s been too long. That particular aspect of the character has always intrigued me. Anyone who thinks of the Hulk and only comes up with “Hulk Smash!” should definitely pick up this issue to see just how much depth a character like the Hulk really has.
As to the art, honestly, I wasn’t very excited about Jae Lee’s art in this issue. I liked the way he drew the “regular” characters: Bruce Banner and the other “normal-looking” people. But his rendition of the Hulk still doesn’t sit well with me. I didn’t care much for it in Hulk/Thing: Hard Knocks, either. Personal tastes, I suppose.
Great couple of issues, PAD. Eagerly looking forward to the House of M tie-in arc, and your new Spider-Man ongoing series.
–Don aka Ygor
Just saw an article regarding the DC panel from The Philly Wizard Con and a DC rep reportedly made a public statement that PAD is taking Fallen Angel to IDW. PAD? True?
I’m a big Jae Lee fan, and the art here was beautiful. But one thing bugged me, and that is the splash page with the big explosion. What exactly happened there? Did Tricia’s cab explode? Then why does it look like the fish store is exploding outward? It looks like Bruce is flying out of the store.
I usually hate stand-alone / fill-in issues because I miss the growth of the character that PAD develops through his run on a title. This issue was so very different though. I enjoyed the interlude into Bruce’s life and his actual feelings about a woman besides Betty (who I still hopes becomes a regular in the title, every beast deserves a beauty). Plus, it was a nice transition between Hulk leaving the Island of Nightmares and actually traveling to get back to the U.S.A. What did Hulk do with Nightmare’s steed anyway? Good to have you back Peter, I’d stopped reading comics until I heard you were back on Hulk.
ps-Reading Apropos series right now. Great stuff!
Oh fûçk, PAD.
I was really looking forward to your return to the Hulk. I did enjoy the Nightmare Island arc, but mainly for the inimitable and hilarious dialogue, the spot on characterization and the nefarious twists and turns. (The art didn’t hurt, either.) However, the story itself was kinda confusing and not one of your best, although admittedly I would have problems putting quite my finger on what went wrong. Oh well, it was still better than the last SEVERAL years of the Hulk, and it was still PAD, so okay then, let’s not complain.
And then…
And then you go ahead and follow it up with a story like this, and prove once and again why you are one of the best writers in the business.
I just finished reading it a few minutes ago. I absolutely, completely loved it. I know it sounds corny, but this story spoke to me on so many levels, and… okay, it does sound corny, sorry,
It’s still true.
Thank you.
I agree with the above comments. This is the kind of story which _should_ win Eisner (or Wizard) ‘best stand-alone issue’ awards.
I liked the issue – for one thing, it’s nice to see a realistic view of London in an American comic (as opposed to bowler hats/fog/thatched cottages). Although I wasn’t quite clear on whether this story was set now, or just at some indeterminate point in the past.
“I agree with the above comments. This is the kind of story which _should_ win Eisner (or Wizard) ‘best stand-alone issue’ awards.”
I wouldn’t hold my breath. If the Eisners were able to ignore “Fallen Angel” this year, they’ll certainly be able to ignore Hulk #82 next year.
PAD
Thanks, Nate, but what I was curious about was what transformations Hulk had undergone to get him this way. What’s the cause of his current personality? What happened after the “SavageBanner” personality emerged at the end of the Pantheon arc?
Peter,
This issue just broke my heart. Well done (‘course, I’ve got some real world issues going on right now that gave it some added power…)
Also, thank you for reminding me that a complete (and very, very beautiful) story CAN be told in only 32 pages. It’s been a long, long while since I’ve seen one done that well.
It was beautiful, PAD. I’m sorting through whether or not I want to continue getting comics or not, and this issue did a lot to push me into continuing to read them. Thanks (I think).
While I wasn’t too fond of the finale of Tempest Fugit, I really liked this single-issue tale. It’s ironic too because I expected to dislike it as I was not enamored with Jae Lee’s work on Hulk/Thing at all. But here it just worked perfectly for me (the way it did on the Inhumans maxi-series)
It’s a story about a man, the monster inside, and the monsters out there, mixed with some tragic love/destiny stuff as well. It was good, and it makes me want more stories like that (although I too like your previous Hulk stories better still, like some others here)
So while I felt the previous issue was only average, this one was an A on both writing and art. I hope the House of M tie-in story will be just as good.
It was a good story. It brought a lot of things in focus for me. For example, it really IS possible for someone to be evil and still keep a 9-5 job–which, after all these years, finally explains the people work at the office with me.
An aspect I really liked about Hulk #82 was the element of horror that Peter put into the issue; the way the Hulk scared the gunman into a heart attack, the page with the kid running and the Hulk laughing, and the use of darkness throughout. I find the Hulk is best when mixed with a bit of horror. Keep up the great work!
I’m late to the party on this topic, but that was one of the best Hulk stories I’ve ever read..and I’ve been reading the Hulk since 1976 as a wee child. The art was perfect for the story! Oh…and I was so glad to see the whole astral spirit and the Hulk being able to see it touched on again. Great GREAT GREAT story! Now if only you would do a “flash Back” story about The Hulk and Jarrella set in the 70’s. I dug Jarrella.
I can’t believe I’m the only one out here who didn’t like this issue. After reading it, the first thing I thought was, “What the hëll was that?” and “I wonder if I could get my money back.” It was just completely out of left field and felt like a fill-in issue in the worst way. I was actually pìššëd that I spent 3 bucks on that issue.
Having said that, I’m eagerly awaiting the next issue.
Ðámņ you Peter David.
Very . . . . . . . interesting.
I did not get my copy until today, and had already read the comments posted. They did not give too much away, and I was too curious to wait until I got my copy.
As always, a well crafted story. The answer to the riddle at the end was close to what I suspected, but well done none th less. I did not like the “crueler” side of the Hulk, but under the circumstances, it made sense.
Unlike a few, I like that it was a self contained story. Besides, knowing PAD, I would not be surprised if elements showed up again later. It was not filler, but an interesting perspective on both sides of the person who makes up the Hulk/Banner duality.
I have no money at the moment and am trying to drop comics I don’t like, but since I normally give a book 6 issues of being “bad,” I suspect I am trapped buying the Hulk for a quite a while longer.
Iowa Jim
PAD,
Goodness, this was such a powerful story! Easily the best since your return to the title. One of the most powerful stories I have ever read by you, or anyone for that matter.
Be proud, PAD.
As for awards, well, they are only worth what you feel they are. And I found this issue to be far superior in every way to any issue of “Fallen Angel”. But then, I find it superior to a lot of stuff you have done – which is saying something when you consider the vastness and high quality of your other books.
Very good issue. Everyone is doing the 4-6 issue story arc thing now, so I thought it was great that it was a standalone story. Jae Lee can come back any time he wants.
“I dug Jarrella”
If you wanna have self-made Fun With Continuity, just tell yourself that Trisha was Jarrella in a previous life. Hence the whole “connection in a previous life” deal/thingie.
“THE HULK CAN DO ANYTHING”
What an amazing line. It sums up the history of the Hulk… whether he’s miniaturized on Earth or fighting in space or in an alternate universe, the Hulk has seen it all, done it all, and is continuing to prove how Incredible he can be.
Is this the same Jae Lee that penciled Namor back in the day when Byrne was writing but not drawing? I don’t recall his artwork being this expressive I’ve been to London and l love how the creep-factor was established. Even when I found myself asking “why the heck is the Hulk in London? Did he ride Nightmare’s Horse across the Pond?” that still didn’t take away my love of the story.
This story was one of those hauntingly beautiful stories that hit me at just the right time – similar to the theme of the story. In a cool way, this reminded me of Astro City 1/2 – where a man is looking for his wife, only to discover… well, go buy the issue.
Anyway, this was a great story, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can’t wait for the next issue!
Jae Lee got on my goodside during his run on THE INHUMANS maxiseries from years past. I would not mind seeing him again on this book, but I have to admit that I prefer Lee Weeks. One of the most underrated artists.
You asked, so:
I have to say, Peter, that this was one of not only your better Hulk stories, but any hulk stories I have read. That is saying something, as I have almost every issue. (Not a collector, but a reader, thankyouverymuch!)
You have done more for the Hulk in your last six issues than anyone has since… Well, your last run. This issue in particular was spectacular. I know that you are moving into the Spider territory soon (because, you know, there are not enough titles that bear that name already) and while I am sure it will be a great run, I feel that you are really one of the only writers who can do justice to the Hulk.
Which brings me to another topic. Why are the great comics writers never offered, or accepts, writing the Hulk? He is one of the best, if underutilized characters, in modern comics. Tragic, ripe of expansion, etc… A Hulk comic can be, you have shown, just as “deep” as a Vertigo comic. It can be just as action packed as any issue of the Avengers. So why the reluctance to tackle the character?
This leaves you, Peter, to take this character and run with it. The fans will be there. I worried how many new, good Hulk stories you really had in you after your long run, but those fears are a thing of the past after the last six issues.
You continue to impress me, something that is hard to do as I grow older. (35) As a writer and published author myself, I understand how difficult it is what you do, especially for as long as you have done it. I hope you continue to do so for a long time.
Tim Robertson
Is this the same Jae Lee that penciled Namor back in the day when Byrne was writing but not drawing? I don’t recall his artwork being this expressive
[B]Same guy. But that was about 13 years ago. he’s gotten better.[/B]
Okay, the first thing I thought when I read this was “wait, havent I read this before?”, then I went back and checked out my Hulk/Pitt one shot and realized it was quite similar.
But hey, I guess a writer can’t rip off his own story can he?
I loved the issue though, read it and re-read it to let it sink in. The art accommodated the story perfectly. There were pieces of dialogue that seemed truly inspired “are we destined to always be two ships passing in the night?”
This story just goes to remind us something:
Most comic book writers are just that, comic-book writers. They can lay down a plot, but get lost with finesse and mood.
PAD is a great writer. Period.
Great issue PAD, Im so glad to see you back on the title, its been a long time coming for us old school fanboys from back in the day.
And thanks for giving us a story we didnt have to wait through a six issue arc to complete.
I loved it. And thank God it wasn’t stretched out over 6 issues.
Hey Pete.
Really liked ish 82. Very sweet story telling.
But here’s my gripe about ish 81 and the tempus fugit story line (since you asked; “So whad’ja think?”); What was the point?
I guess what I thought about the tempus fugit story line was that I didn’t understand it. I understood the past sequences and really enjoyed them. It fleshed out a lot of Bruces’ character. It made me think that I wish Tempus Fugit was more about his past. Not (what I felt was) some dream induced tale that makes all of what Bruce Jones had penned before immaterial/unimportant. I invested a lot of time and money into his tale and really enjoyed it. His work was thought provoking and enjoyable. And now its just so much back issue? I’m kinda dissapointed, Pete. I’ll keep reading the Hulk cuz I love the charater and I think you are a good writer and worth the time. I’m kind of hoping that all the work that had been put before, isn’t simply washed away because it didn’t jive with your take on the Hulk. That would be a very unfortunate slieght to another creator. Don’t you think? I know you’ve been sleighted that way in the past. And I thought that equally sucked. And hey! Maybe I’m COMPLETELY off base here! I’m willing to apologize, up front, if I am wrong. Maybe you havent sleighted another creator and I’m just being too much of a fan boy. Who knows. It’s just that I thought maybe with ish 82 you would continue the direction that Tempus Fugit had started and we would get some answers. Even tho I really enjoyed 82, I was bummed that wasnt the case. We see Banner in the UK. Why is he there? I don’t know. Maybe he rode Nightmares horse over there. I mean, that could’ve happened, right? Nightmare has his own island and the UK is an Island….Hulk needed a pint after a long swim. Ok. I look forward to the next ish and maybe some answers about the world we are now seeing Hulk in. And please, Pete, let me know if I’m worng and I’ll stop my inner fanboy from whining at you 🙂 That’s what I think of Tempus Fugit. Since you asked.
P.S.; I loved that you employed Hulks odd ability to be able to see “ghosts”. I don’t think anyones done that for a loooooong time. Kudos to you for that 🙂
Any reasoning why he can do that? Maybe since his rage fuels him, all of his (Hulks) other senses are based on pure emotion and since a ghost is only there due to a horrible death, Hulk can “Feel” the other souls anger and thus “see” the “ghost”?
Thoughts?
1
Peter,
I have to heap some praise onto you for this issue. I very much enjoyed the story. Heck, it even resonated on some levels with me. The idea of people not always meeting their soul mates, or meeting them at the wrong time seems to depressingly real to me. Good job.
Now, for my only problem with the book: the art. I’ve never been a big fan of Jae Lee’s work, but in the past, I’ve been able to fairly easily discern what’s going on. With this issue, I had to stare at 2 pages to understand what was happening.
The blast that knocks Bruce into the shop just was muddy to me. I couldn’t figure out exactly what was going on.
Then, when the Hulk confronts that sorceror, and stops him just before he finishes his spell, I guess the Hulk was supposed to have hit him, but nothing in the panel indicates any impact.
Overall, I felt that the artistic style was perfect for the story (especially how vicious the Hulk was), but not this particular artist.
Peter–Nothing but praise for your return to the Hulk. I’ve wiated for years for this. Sir, you wrote my childhood! Peafe and good things,
Jeff Childers
Loved Hulk 82. I’m not a big fan of the current trend of “adult” storytelling in comic books. Mainly it just gives creators excuse to sodomize beloved secondary characters or murder them in ways most third graders think are cool.
Yet here was a story that was at its heart something that really touches that lost love which most people can feel; that one person who can make a grey November day look like its shining through stained glass and that’s the one person you can’t ever have, except for a few moments.
This is a story that even sloughing towards 40, I can still proudly give my wife and tell her this is why I read comics.
After reading issue 82, you have to wonder whether Jae Lee has been reading the same Hulk comic that the rest of us have been. What the hëll did he draw? Lets hope things return to form again next story arc, and the art on this issue can be but a distant memory. Shame though, from what I could understand it was a really good story.
Good to hear that Adam Kubert is drawing one of your Hulk issues again before he is exiled to DC!
Ian
Very nice issue. Its great to see in a time where veteran writers return to the series that made them famous and turn out, well, crap (Byrne anyone?) that PAD can write a Hulk issue that actually raises the bar on quality.
I got it a little late, and finally read it on the bus this morning and was really impressed.
• 
It was your best Hulk story since returning to the book, and Jae Lee’s sublime Patrick Nagel-like artwork was as beautiful as it always is.
But if I can ask, what’s the current status of Hulk regarding his personality? From the past several issues, it seems like Joe Fixit. Is that it? Or a new one? Please someone let me know. 🙂
Pretty dámņ good. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, because the Jae Lee art I glanced at on the Hulk/Think mini-series didn’t look appealing to me at all, but he did a very nice job this issue.
Nice job.
This is the best single issue of a comic I’ve read all year long and is one the best hulk stories ever. Normally I’m not a fan of Jae Lee dark, moody yet strangely elegant art style but for this particular story it works very well. This issue could have been a run of the mill fill in as the female character is a one off character but the strength of the writing combined with art tailor made for this story makes this issue of the Incredible Hulk really special.
I think……my subscription copy hasn’t come yet.
MARVEL!!!!!!!!!!
I rather liked this issue, much more than the previous 5 part Nightmare story (which I think would have made a great mini series but just didn’t work as well in a regular series, I’m one of those guys that likes to keep real world events out of our little make believe worlds, sorry) Anyway, I liked the Hulk being somewhere we usually don’t see him (or any other Marvel characters) thanks for reminding us there’s a big world out there for these characters to visit. With all the mystic stuff is there any chance of Dr. Strange showing up? I always liked the way the characters played off each other.
Sadly, I’m not a big fan of Jae Lee’s style either but I must admit that the art matched the tone of the story very well. I don’t know if I’d like him to stay on as the regular artist but I think he made a good fill-in guy.
PAD, I can’t speak for others but I’m dying to have the Hulk defined a bit more. Is this more of a Joe Fixit personality? The moody Hulk who took over the Florida Keys? The “I’m Bruce Banner who can call forth my transformation but I’m still in control” Hulk? Or something a bit different?
Anyway loved the issue, hope there’s more like it on the way.
Hey anychance of Rick and Marlo showing back up?
I enjoyed this story greatly. I’ve always thought one major tragedy of life is the person out there who’s your absolute match, but you never meet.
Something this story does bring up, also, which I would like to see explored sometime, is why does The Hulk have such a strange relationship with magic? Why can he see astral forms? And why doesn’t magic work on him that well? (Like the various times Dr. Strange has tried, and failed, to change him back to Banner for good — outside of the obvious reason it would cut Hulk’s series really short?)
By the way, NPR’s Talk of the Nation Science Friday had a segment about gamma rays today. Yo might want to give it a listen on the website.
In a time when I’m teetering back and forth into comics trying to find something worth holding onto, I picked up Hulk this week and loved every second of it.
The art blew me away, especially Lee’s Hulk expressions.
I’m staying, no doubt!
Yeah, wow, I loved this issue. It hit me in the emotional neither regions for reasons I can’t quite articulate. Something about meeting that special someone at the wrong time really did it for me. That and the art was fantastic, I loved the ethereal look of Trica that became more hazy and unfocused as the issue went on, and the fog drenched art – gave it a mystical quality that enhanced the tragic story. And I’m seriously not blowing smoke here; it really worked for me. The last page is what did it for me. Don’t know why.
While I liked the last issue a lot, this one is gonna stick with me. While I can’t see this type of creepy tone sustaining the book for issues upon issues, as a one shot, its powerfully stuff.
Good job, PAD. No foolies.
Great story and it had the big plus of Jae Lee’s art.
I liked it better than the previous issues, but I still much prefer your old run when you wrote Hulk as a sitcom.
Mr. David,
Just finished reading Hulk #82 and I must say that it has been the story I’ve liked the most in all the time I’ve been reading your material.
The first person narrative captivates the reader and makes one part of the story. You create a wonderful character with Tricia with just a few lines of dialogue and then hit us with a sense of loss I could feel. It reminded me a little of the death of Jean DeWolff (I hope I have the spelling right). This issue is ideal for introducing new readers to the medium. One of the best stories I’ve read in a while (comics or narrative). Great ideas with the enemy sorcerors and magicians… very original. Mr. Lee’s artwork is wonderful, moody and fits right in with the mood you create. Congratulations on what I think to be your best work yet. The most I can add, is this: I loved it and Thank you.
Very nice issue – it reminded me of why I used to like Hellblazer so much.
Have you ever been offered that gig, and/or what would you think about writing the adventures of John Constantine?
Luigi,
About Hulk’s personality:
http://www.comicboards.com/hulk/view.php?rpl=050115223812
Kim wrote:
Something this story does bring up, also, which I would like to see explored sometime, is why does The Hulk have such a strange relationship with magic? Why can he see astral forms? And why doesn’t magic work on him that well? (Like the various times Dr. Strange has tried, and failed, to change him back to Banner for good — outside of the obvious reason it would cut Hulk’s series really short?)
Both answers are out there, actually.
In Incredible Hulk #-1, written by PAD, it was explained that seeing astral forms was an ability the Hulk obtained through the subconscious wish to be able to see his dead father’s ghost coming for him. Y’see, Banner killed his father, and has repressed the memory, but some part of him remembers and can’t get past the feeling he should be on guard against a vengeance scheme from beyond the grave. Thus, he can also see Dr. Strange and Tricia from #82.
As an aside–the Hulk also has/had an apparently preternatural sense of the G-bomb test site, practically able to return there at will. The ability may or may not function anymore, but it too was explained (in Hulk #460) as not so much something supernatural, but that the Maestro, the Hulk’s future self who was sent through time and killed at ground zero of the G-bomb detonation that created the Hulk, was there the whole time, “calling” him back to the area so he could soak up more and more of the gamma from his body and eventually heal to plague the Hulk anew.
And why don’t cures stick, not just magical ones? It’s been hinted that some part of Banner just doesn’t want to be free. PAD had the Hulk exerting subconscious influence over Banner’s actions to overturn any cures that came his way (see #331, or Hulk Visionaries 1, for a sample).
Best,
~G.
I loved the ending of “Tempest Fugit” in #81. It had an interesting twist that could make fans of practically any era of the Hulk’s existence happy.
#82, the stand-alone story, was pretty cool as well. I’m glad to see that the Hulk was using some of those latent mystical abilities of his. It’s been too long. That particular aspect of the character has always intrigued me. Anyone who thinks of the Hulk and only comes up with “Hulk Smash!” should definitely pick up this issue to see just how much depth a character like the Hulk really has.
As to the art, honestly, I wasn’t very excited about Jae Lee’s art in this issue. I liked the way he drew the “regular” characters: Bruce Banner and the other “normal-looking” people. But his rendition of the Hulk still doesn’t sit well with me. I didn’t care much for it in Hulk/Thing: Hard Knocks, either. Personal tastes, I suppose.
Great couple of issues, PAD. Eagerly looking forward to the House of M tie-in arc, and your new Spider-Man ongoing series.
–Don aka Ygor
Just saw an article regarding the DC panel from The Philly Wizard Con and a DC rep reportedly made a public statement that PAD is taking Fallen Angel to IDW. PAD? True?
I’m a big Jae Lee fan, and the art here was beautiful. But one thing bugged me, and that is the splash page with the big explosion. What exactly happened there? Did Tricia’s cab explode? Then why does it look like the fish store is exploding outward? It looks like Bruce is flying out of the store.
I usually hate stand-alone / fill-in issues because I miss the growth of the character that PAD develops through his run on a title. This issue was so very different though. I enjoyed the interlude into Bruce’s life and his actual feelings about a woman besides Betty (who I still hopes becomes a regular in the title, every beast deserves a beauty). Plus, it was a nice transition between Hulk leaving the Island of Nightmares and actually traveling to get back to the U.S.A. What did Hulk do with Nightmare’s steed anyway? Good to have you back Peter, I’d stopped reading comics until I heard you were back on Hulk.
ps-Reading Apropos series right now. Great stuff!
Oh fûçk, PAD.
I was really looking forward to your return to the Hulk. I did enjoy the Nightmare Island arc, but mainly for the inimitable and hilarious dialogue, the spot on characterization and the nefarious twists and turns. (The art didn’t hurt, either.) However, the story itself was kinda confusing and not one of your best, although admittedly I would have problems putting quite my finger on what went wrong. Oh well, it was still better than the last SEVERAL years of the Hulk, and it was still PAD, so okay then, let’s not complain.
And then…
And then you go ahead and follow it up with a story like this, and prove once and again why you are one of the best writers in the business.
I just finished reading it a few minutes ago. I absolutely, completely loved it. I know it sounds corny, but this story spoke to me on so many levels, and… okay, it does sound corny, sorry,
It’s still true.
Thank you.
I agree with the above comments. This is the kind of story which _should_ win Eisner (or Wizard) ‘best stand-alone issue’ awards.
I liked the issue – for one thing, it’s nice to see a realistic view of London in an American comic (as opposed to bowler hats/fog/thatched cottages). Although I wasn’t quite clear on whether this story was set now, or just at some indeterminate point in the past.
“I agree with the above comments. This is the kind of story which _should_ win Eisner (or Wizard) ‘best stand-alone issue’ awards.”
I wouldn’t hold my breath. If the Eisners were able to ignore “Fallen Angel” this year, they’ll certainly be able to ignore Hulk #82 next year.
PAD
Thanks, Nate, but what I was curious about was what transformations Hulk had undergone to get him this way. What’s the cause of his current personality? What happened after the “SavageBanner” personality emerged at the end of the Pantheon arc?
Peter,
This issue just broke my heart. Well done (‘course, I’ve got some real world issues going on right now that gave it some added power…)
Also, thank you for reminding me that a complete (and very, very beautiful) story CAN be told in only 32 pages. It’s been a long, long while since I’ve seen one done that well.
It was beautiful, PAD. I’m sorting through whether or not I want to continue getting comics or not, and this issue did a lot to push me into continuing to read them. Thanks (I think).
While I wasn’t too fond of the finale of Tempest Fugit, I really liked this single-issue tale. It’s ironic too because I expected to dislike it as I was not enamored with Jae Lee’s work on Hulk/Thing at all. But here it just worked perfectly for me (the way it did on the Inhumans maxi-series)
It’s a story about a man, the monster inside, and the monsters out there, mixed with some tragic love/destiny stuff as well. It was good, and it makes me want more stories like that (although I too like your previous Hulk stories better still, like some others here)
So while I felt the previous issue was only average, this one was an A on both writing and art. I hope the House of M tie-in story will be just as good.
It was a good story. It brought a lot of things in focus for me. For example, it really IS possible for someone to be evil and still keep a 9-5 job–which, after all these years, finally explains the people work at the office with me.
An aspect I really liked about Hulk #82 was the element of horror that Peter put into the issue; the way the Hulk scared the gunman into a heart attack, the page with the kid running and the Hulk laughing, and the use of darkness throughout. I find the Hulk is best when mixed with a bit of horror. Keep up the great work!
I’m late to the party on this topic, but that was one of the best Hulk stories I’ve ever read..and I’ve been reading the Hulk since 1976 as a wee child. The art was perfect for the story! Oh…and I was so glad to see the whole astral spirit and the Hulk being able to see it touched on again. Great GREAT GREAT story! Now if only you would do a “flash Back” story about The Hulk and Jarrella set in the 70’s. I dug Jarrella.
I can’t believe I’m the only one out here who didn’t like this issue. After reading it, the first thing I thought was, “What the hëll was that?” and “I wonder if I could get my money back.” It was just completely out of left field and felt like a fill-in issue in the worst way. I was actually pìššëd that I spent 3 bucks on that issue.
Having said that, I’m eagerly awaiting the next issue.
Ðámņ you Peter David.
Very . . . . . . . interesting.
I did not get my copy until today, and had already read the comments posted. They did not give too much away, and I was too curious to wait until I got my copy.
As always, a well crafted story. The answer to the riddle at the end was close to what I suspected, but well done none th less. I did not like the “crueler” side of the Hulk, but under the circumstances, it made sense.
Unlike a few, I like that it was a self contained story. Besides, knowing PAD, I would not be surprised if elements showed up again later. It was not filler, but an interesting perspective on both sides of the person who makes up the Hulk/Banner duality.
I have no money at the moment and am trying to drop comics I don’t like, but since I normally give a book 6 issues of being “bad,” I suspect I am trapped buying the Hulk for a quite a while longer.
Iowa Jim
PAD,
Goodness, this was such a powerful story! Easily the best since your return to the title. One of the most powerful stories I have ever read by you, or anyone for that matter.
Be proud, PAD.
As for awards, well, they are only worth what you feel they are. And I found this issue to be far superior in every way to any issue of “Fallen Angel”. But then, I find it superior to a lot of stuff you have done – which is saying something when you consider the vastness and high quality of your other books.
Very good issue. Everyone is doing the 4-6 issue story arc thing now, so I thought it was great that it was a standalone story. Jae Lee can come back any time he wants.
“I dug Jarrella”
If you wanna have self-made Fun With Continuity, just tell yourself that Trisha was Jarrella in a previous life. Hence the whole “connection in a previous life” deal/thingie.
“THE HULK CAN DO ANYTHING”
What an amazing line. It sums up the history of the Hulk… whether he’s miniaturized on Earth or fighting in space or in an alternate universe, the Hulk has seen it all, done it all, and is continuing to prove how Incredible he can be.
Is this the same Jae Lee that penciled Namor back in the day when Byrne was writing but not drawing? I don’t recall his artwork being this expressive I’ve been to London and l love how the creep-factor was established. Even when I found myself asking “why the heck is the Hulk in London? Did he ride Nightmare’s Horse across the Pond?” that still didn’t take away my love of the story.
This story was one of those hauntingly beautiful stories that hit me at just the right time – similar to the theme of the story. In a cool way, this reminded me of Astro City 1/2 – where a man is looking for his wife, only to discover… well, go buy the issue.
Anyway, this was a great story, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can’t wait for the next issue!
Jae Lee got on my goodside during his run on THE INHUMANS maxiseries from years past. I would not mind seeing him again on this book, but I have to admit that I prefer Lee Weeks. One of the most underrated artists.
You asked, so:
I have to say, Peter, that this was one of not only your better Hulk stories, but any hulk stories I have read. That is saying something, as I have almost every issue. (Not a collector, but a reader, thankyouverymuch!)
You have done more for the Hulk in your last six issues than anyone has since… Well, your last run. This issue in particular was spectacular. I know that you are moving into the Spider territory soon (because, you know, there are not enough titles that bear that name already) and while I am sure it will be a great run, I feel that you are really one of the only writers who can do justice to the Hulk.
Which brings me to another topic. Why are the great comics writers never offered, or accepts, writing the Hulk? He is one of the best, if underutilized characters, in modern comics. Tragic, ripe of expansion, etc… A Hulk comic can be, you have shown, just as “deep” as a Vertigo comic. It can be just as action packed as any issue of the Avengers. So why the reluctance to tackle the character?
This leaves you, Peter, to take this character and run with it. The fans will be there. I worried how many new, good Hulk stories you really had in you after your long run, but those fears are a thing of the past after the last six issues.
You continue to impress me, something that is hard to do as I grow older. (35) As a writer and published author myself, I understand how difficult it is what you do, especially for as long as you have done it. I hope you continue to do so for a long time.
Tim Robertson
Is this the same Jae Lee that penciled Namor back in the day when Byrne was writing but not drawing? I don’t recall his artwork being this expressive
[B]Same guy. But that was about 13 years ago. he’s gotten better.[/B]
Okay, the first thing I thought when I read this was “wait, havent I read this before?”, then I went back and checked out my Hulk/Pitt one shot and realized it was quite similar.
But hey, I guess a writer can’t rip off his own story can he?
I loved the issue though, read it and re-read it to let it sink in. The art accommodated the story perfectly. There were pieces of dialogue that seemed truly inspired “are we destined to always be two ships passing in the night?”
This story just goes to remind us something:
Most comic book writers are just that, comic-book writers. They can lay down a plot, but get lost with finesse and mood.
PAD is a great writer. Period.
Great issue PAD, Im so glad to see you back on the title, its been a long time coming for us old school fanboys from back in the day.
And thanks for giving us a story we didnt have to wait through a six issue arc to complete.
I loved it. And thank God it wasn’t stretched out over 6 issues.
Hey Pete.
Really liked ish 82. Very sweet story telling.
But here’s my gripe about ish 81 and the tempus fugit story line (since you asked; “So whad’ja think?”); What was the point?
I guess what I thought about the tempus fugit story line was that I didn’t understand it. I understood the past sequences and really enjoyed them. It fleshed out a lot of Bruces’ character. It made me think that I wish Tempus Fugit was more about his past. Not (what I felt was) some dream induced tale that makes all of what Bruce Jones had penned before immaterial/unimportant. I invested a lot of time and money into his tale and really enjoyed it. His work was thought provoking and enjoyable. And now its just so much back issue? I’m kinda dissapointed, Pete. I’ll keep reading the Hulk cuz I love the charater and I think you are a good writer and worth the time. I’m kind of hoping that all the work that had been put before, isn’t simply washed away because it didn’t jive with your take on the Hulk. That would be a very unfortunate slieght to another creator. Don’t you think? I know you’ve been sleighted that way in the past. And I thought that equally sucked. And hey! Maybe I’m COMPLETELY off base here! I’m willing to apologize, up front, if I am wrong. Maybe you havent sleighted another creator and I’m just being too much of a fan boy. Who knows. It’s just that I thought maybe with ish 82 you would continue the direction that Tempus Fugit had started and we would get some answers. Even tho I really enjoyed 82, I was bummed that wasnt the case. We see Banner in the UK. Why is he there? I don’t know. Maybe he rode Nightmares horse over there. I mean, that could’ve happened, right? Nightmare has his own island and the UK is an Island….Hulk needed a pint after a long swim. Ok. I look forward to the next ish and maybe some answers about the world we are now seeing Hulk in. And please, Pete, let me know if I’m worng and I’ll stop my inner fanboy from whining at you 🙂 That’s what I think of Tempus Fugit. Since you asked.
P.S.; I loved that you employed Hulks odd ability to be able to see “ghosts”. I don’t think anyones done that for a loooooong time. Kudos to you for that 🙂
Any reasoning why he can do that? Maybe since his rage fuels him, all of his (Hulks) other senses are based on pure emotion and since a ghost is only there due to a horrible death, Hulk can “Feel” the other souls anger and thus “see” the “ghost”?
Thoughts?
1
Peter,
I have to heap some praise onto you for this issue. I very much enjoyed the story. Heck, it even resonated on some levels with me. The idea of people not always meeting their soul mates, or meeting them at the wrong time seems to depressingly real to me. Good job.
Now, for my only problem with the book: the art. I’ve never been a big fan of Jae Lee’s work, but in the past, I’ve been able to fairly easily discern what’s going on. With this issue, I had to stare at 2 pages to understand what was happening.
The blast that knocks Bruce into the shop just was muddy to me. I couldn’t figure out exactly what was going on.
Then, when the Hulk confronts that sorceror, and stops him just before he finishes his spell, I guess the Hulk was supposed to have hit him, but nothing in the panel indicates any impact.
Overall, I felt that the artistic style was perfect for the story (especially how vicious the Hulk was), but not this particular artist.
Peter–Nothing but praise for your return to the Hulk. I’ve wiated for years for this. Sir, you wrote my childhood! Peafe and good things,
Jeff Childers
Loved Hulk 82. I’m not a big fan of the current trend of “adult” storytelling in comic books. Mainly it just gives creators excuse to sodomize beloved secondary characters or murder them in ways most third graders think are cool.
Yet here was a story that was at its heart something that really touches that lost love which most people can feel; that one person who can make a grey November day look like its shining through stained glass and that’s the one person you can’t ever have, except for a few moments.
This is a story that even sloughing towards 40, I can still proudly give my wife and tell her this is why I read comics.
After reading issue 82, you have to wonder whether Jae Lee has been reading the same Hulk comic that the rest of us have been. What the hëll did he draw? Lets hope things return to form again next story arc, and the art on this issue can be but a distant memory. Shame though, from what I could understand it was a really good story.
Good to hear that Adam Kubert is drawing one of your Hulk issues again before he is exiled to DC!
Ian
Very nice issue. Its great to see in a time where veteran writers return to the series that made them famous and turn out, well, crap (Byrne anyone?) that PAD can write a Hulk issue that actually raises the bar on quality.
I got it a little late, and finally read it on the bus this morning and was really impressed.