Incredible Hulk #103: Review and spoilers

[Kevinroc]

Now there are only two more issues left until World War Hulk.

The issue opens with the first day of Hulk's reign as the Green King. The spikes have fed off of Hulk for many hours and Caiera watches as the clocked Hulk's skin shrinks and turns white. This figure states that they are feeding off "him" but then corrects himself to say "me". After shredding the cloth and showcasing that he is Hulk again, Caiera and Hulk take to the streets of Sakaar and recieve offerings of food from the people.

Elloe and Miek battle against some of the Red King's loyalists and then take to the Senate where they discover Elloe's mother. Miek wants to kill her but Elloe won't stand for it. As they go to blows, Hulk and Caiera arrive and state that they settle this the only way they can on Sakaar.

In the arena, Korg tells them it is not too late to stop but they don't listen. The Shadow Elders state that Hulk hasn't built a new world.

Hulk oversees the arena and tells them to fight. As they stare at each other and trade cautious blows, Hulk then leaps down into the arena and tells everyone to focuse their attacks on him. Hulk tells them it's over.

Miek is upset that the pinkies still have power on Sakaar and that Hulk is forgetting their plight of "never stop making them pay."

Hulk meets with the Shadow Elders to develop a new relationship with them. They state that Caiera will remain as Hulk's shadow guard but Hulk states he doesn't want a shadow guard, he wants a queen. Caiera agrees and the two leave, leaving Korg to state that they have an agreement.

During the private Shadow ceremony, Caiera asks Hulk to see "all of him." Hulk then transforms back into Bruce Banner. Hulk did this so Caiera could see "all of him." Caiera kisses Bruce and during the kiss, Bruce transforms back into The Hulk.

We cut to later where Hulk and Caiera are staring out at the city from the balcony.

Meanwhile, The Brood and Miek are investigating the palace. Miek is still upset that Hulk seems to have gotten over being so mad. The two eventually stumble upon the spaceship and The Illuminati's video plays back. Miek smiles. Hulk will remember...

To Be Continued...

(And only two more issues left for Planet Hulk.)

[drwho]

I like this, but I can just picture Miek getting killed in the end. He is just a blood thirsty sob. Kind of interesting how they are the ones that are gonna help the plot move into World War Hulk though. I liked the issue, but are we truly to believe the Hulk is finally over Betty? Also would be interesting to hear Bruce's opinion on this so called marriage.

[4thHorseman]

Never read Hulk before the whole Planet Hulk storyline, and it's got me pumped. Haven't missed an issue since. Great story, great art, and can't wait to see what will happen.

[AM/FM Wizard]

I really enjoyed this month's issue (ties with The All-New Atom as my favorite book of the week) and I thought that it was cool that Hulk took a queen.

But I do have a question... on the page with the Brood and Miek, did it look as if the Brood "impregnated" Miek, the panel concealed in darkness? This could prove interesting if they're with the Hulk when he returns to Earth.

[Kevinroc]

I like this, but I can just picture Miek getting killed in the end. He is just a blood thirsty sob. Kind of interesting how they are the ones that are gonna help the plot move into World War Hulk though. I liked the issue, but are we truly to believe the Hulk is finally over Betty? Also would be interesting to hear Bruce's opinion on this so called marriage.

Bruce just seemed shocked when Caiera kissed him. It was when he started to transform into Hulk again that he put his arms around her.

I don't really know what Bruce thinks about this whole situation. He seemed to agree with the way Hulk was handling The Spikes. And he was nervous meeting Caiera. But that could mean a whole lot of different things.

I wouldn't get real bent outta shape about Hulk and Caiera. Hulk and Betty mean different things to different writers and different incarnations. Since I basically look at the current personality as basically being "Joe Fixit", it's odd just thinking he's trying to settle down with one woman. ;)

[MAK15]

I thoughht tha brood/miek scene was gonna end up bein wierd, by the brood's dialogue alone. fortunatley miek didnt play any barry white.
however, it seems miek is pretty darn nasty, mch more than the series has let on.

[CMBMOOL]

Man, Hulk and Caiera are a great Power couple that I would cry at their wedding. :p


This issue is so good and a new high point in the Hulk's confused life, it seems a shame that it all comes crashing down in just two issues. :(

[Tony Starkz]

this book is killer

[Holdyourfireal]

Isn't Bruce still married to Betty? Am I missing something????

[Holdyourfireal]

Ummmm...if you run out of story, I would prefer Hulk pin-ups by Sal Buscema, Lee Weeks, or others next time instead of paying for lil' Franklin Richards!

Thanks!

Al

[kal_el21]

Here's hoping for a long and prosperous union between Hulk and Caiera! This issue was fine, the whole Brood/Miek thing was pretty creepy. Who would've thought that that scrawny, little bug Miek would've evolved into that manipulative, little $#*!.

[RabidWolfe]

I wouldn't get real bent outta shape about Hulk and Caiera. Hulk and Betty mean different things to different writers and different incarnations. Since I basically look at the current personality as basically being "Joe Fixit", it's odd just thinking he's trying to settle down with one woman. ;)

As far as Hulk/Bruce knows, Betty is likely still in a coma or dead. In Tempest Fugit, Nightmare told him the last few years of his life weren't all real, and even though Nightmare said Daydream was his child off of Betty, he implied Betty was still in a coma (at the end of that arc, we see Betty alive and well, but all the Hulk knows is that he can't be sure of Betty's status).

[Holdyourfireal]

As far as Hulk/Bruce knows, Betty is likely still in a coma or dead. In Tempest Fugit, Nightmare told him the last few years of his life weren't all real, and even though Nightmare said Daydream was his child off of Betty, he implied Betty was still in a coma (at the end of that arc, we see Betty alive and well, but all the Hulk knows is that he can't be sure of Betty's status).


Are you serious???? I have to back & reread those issues! So...Bruce Jones entire run never happenned????

[RabidWolfe]

Are you serious???? I have to back & reread those issues! So...Bruce Jones entire run never happenned????

Not exactly - Nightmare never really said how much was real and how much was not. He merely said he had been manipulating the Hulk's perceptions over the last bit.

As a follow up, in the Hulk: Destruction mini-series, the Hulk asked the Abomination "so - do you remember the time I slept with your wife" and the Abomination replied "I have no idea what you are talking about" - so, unless the Abomonation was lying (which he had no reason to), that part didn't happen - especially since the The Hulk replied "thought so. Stupid Nightmare."

[StoneGold]

Now here's my question, after the Illuminati came on, did Miek finish? Because I's alls abouts the Blackbolt porn.

[agrich]

You know what would be bold of Marvel? After World War Hulk, send the Hulk back to Planet Hulk. Because he works better there than he has in most of the past decade or two on Earth.

[Post-It]

Here's hoping for a long and prosperous union between Hulk and Caiera! This issue was fine, the whole Brood/Miek thing was pretty creepy. Who would've thought that that scrawny, little bug Miek would've evolved into that manipulative, little $#*!.

I figured the brood and miek would end up together, especially when the last of the bug queens was transformed by the Spikes and killed by Miek. The brood, if I remember correctly, are insect like in nature. That would be a nasty combo, the brood as a queen brood and miek in his current state.

[Spider-Sense]

Great story!This is one of the best issues from Planet hulk so far,and it was really good to see Banner around again.Can't wait for #104.

[pesmerga316]

I like this couple, a lot more then Bruce and Betty..... I hope it lasts for awhile, its good seeing the Hulk actually happy

[Guitar Hero]

I haven't read the issue yet, so i don't know why i'm reading your spoilers! :p but after your reviews, it's making me want to read it even more! First thing tommorrow, i'm gonna go get Incredible Hulk #103, it's the only comic i really look forward to every month!

[tjarvis]

I'm a little confused as to how Bruce lost his grip so easily in that scene there. The Hulk Annual made it seem as though he and Hulk were on opposite sides, so I'm surprised that he so willingly allowed himself to revert back to his Hulk side.

I actually hope we see more Banner in World War Hulk.

[Sgt. Preston]

Another spectacular issue that leaves me wanting more. The Miek/Brood lovin' was a bit disturbing, but hey, bugs need to get some too I guess. I was genuinely surprised to see Bruce appear after all this time, and the relationship between Hulk and Caiera is really taking shape. Sadly, Hulk's happiness appears to be temporary with the impending WWH series. Can't say enough about how great this title is.

[DoctorDoom]

I really enjoyed this month's issue (ties with The All-New Atom as my favorite book of the week) and I thought that it was cool that Hulk took a queen.

But I do have a question... on the page with the Brood and Miek, did it look as if the Brood "impregnated" Miek, the panel concealed in darkness? This could prove interesting if they're with the Hulk when he returns to Earth.
I was thinking the same.

[DoctorDoom]

Also would like to say freaking awesome issue. I can't wait for what comes next.

[steve2275]

i like caieras stockings
it was a nice suprise
and aarons art was great as usual

[DoctorDoom]

Can't believe he took a queen. And can't believe the Bug sex going on. Nasty and erotic....to some. Anyways, can't stop talking about the book.

[Orion101]

I would like to request a scan of the scenes with Caiera looking at Bruce then kissing him. But please do not post scans of the Bug sex I would rather not see that.

[Richard Sullivan]

After reading Hulk 103 I am reminded of Jarrella's World were Hulk/Banner married Jarrela. Planet Hulk is a well done Jarrrella's World. I look forward to the conclusion and WWH.

[StoneGold]

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a59/stonegold/IncredibleHulk103-023.jpg

[Slumber Hulk]

Planet Hulk continues to deliver! ROCK ON!

I think Caiera is great because she may be the first woman to accept the entire man both Hulk & Bruce. Writers have written Hulk and Bruce for too long as two completely seperate beings. Now they may have a change to come a little closer together.

Long live the Green KING!

[Richard Sullivan]

Planet Hulk continues to deliver! ROCK ON!

I think Caiera is great because she may be the first woman to accept the entire man both Hulk & Bruce. Writers have written Hulk and Bruce for too long as two completely seperate beings. Now they may have a change to come a little closer together.

Long live the Green KING!

Jarrella accepted both the Hulk and Bruce.

[Mean Mr Mustard]

I really DO hope they return the hulk to Planet Hulk (Damn, I always forget it's name).
I've been waiting for Elloe to bite the dust for a long time now but it looks like it ain't happening. Not that I necesseraly wanted her to but the way the story unfolded it seemed like it was coming.

Planet Hulk is so awesome, it's like a Conan story or something along those lines.
Even if they don't return him to the planet for whatever reason, they should have a new team called (what else?) The Warbound and have them have space adventures with the same barbarian-like feel. Just do it inside Incredible Hulk and rename it "Incredible Hulk and the Warbound" with the added subtitle in smaller print.

Sadly, I get the feeling there will be a lot of deaths and conflict between Hulk and his posse. Perhaps even betrayal.
Elloe has a very prevalent dark side, No-name's race is pretty darn sinister by nature (By the way, it's amazing how a freaking brood became one of my favorite good guy characters characters) and Miek has become a relatively dark figure...

It might come to blows, probably DURING World War Hulk.
D:

[Expletive Deleted]

Oh, he's totally going to be betrayed by one of the Warbound. Probably Miek.

I'm just hoping Korg and Caiera survive the event.

[mrc1214]

Im actually wondering whats going to happend after the event. Is he going to go back is going to stay.

I hope Miek doesnt betray him he is a loose canon though.

[DoctorDoom]

I really DO hope they return the hulk to Planet Hulk (Damn, I always forget it's name).
I've been waiting for Elloe to bite the dust for a long time now but it looks like it ain't happening. Not that I necesseraly wanted her to but the way the story unfolded it seemed like it was coming.

Planet Hulk is so awesome, it's like a Conan story or something along those lines.
Even if they don't return him to the planet for whatever reason, they should have a new team called (what else?) The Warbound and have them have space adventures with the same barbarian-like feel. Just do it inside Incredible Hulk and rename it "Incredible Hulk and the Warbound" with the added subtitle in smaller print.

Sadly, I get the feeling there will be a lot of deaths and conflict between Hulk and his posse. Perhaps even betrayal.
Elloe has a very prevalent dark side, No-name's race is pretty darn sinister by nature (By the way, it's amazing how a freaking brood became one of my favorite good guy characters characters) and Miek has become a relatively dark figure...

It might come to blows, probably DURING World War Hulk.
D:
Indeed...and I once hated the Brood and now I like the Miek/nameless one relationship.

[stingerman]

I like this, but I can just picture Miek getting killed in the end. He is just a blood thirsty sob. Kind of interesting how they are the ones that are gonna help the plot move into World War Hulk though. I liked the issue, but are we truly to believe the Hulk is finally over Betty? Also would be interesting to hear Bruce's opinion on this so called marriage.

Way back in the Joe Fixit days the grey Hulk had a girlfriend in Vegas, Marla, I think it was. It wasnt Bruce's GF though. Two different people.

[Expletive Deleted]

Marlo Chandler Jones. She eventually married Rick.

[stingerman]

I'm a little confused as to how Bruce lost his grip so easily in that scene there. The Hulk Annual made it seem as though he and Hulk were on opposite sides, so I'm surprised that he so willingly allowed himself to revert back to his Hulk side.

I actually hope we see more Banner in World War Hulk.

I took it as Bruce agreeing with Hulk on their current situation. The Illuminati f'd them BOTH over. Now they're both pissed.

[Expletive Deleted]

I took it as Bruce agreeing with Hulk on their current situation. The Illuminati f'd them BOTH over. Now they're both pissed.I dunno about that. Bruce might just be resigned to Hulk's current status on Sakaar. When it comes to the actual revenge/invasion thing, I don't think Bruce will be okay with it.

[stingerman]

I dunno about that. Bruce might just be resigned to Hulk's current status on Sakaar. When it comes to the actual revenge/invasion thing, I don't think Bruce will be okay with it.

Yeah maybe. But it might actually be pretty cool if, for once, the Hulk and Bruce accept each other. Sort of we gotta live together might as well get along. I cant remember if that has ever happened in the Hulk comics though. Might work out.

[StoneGold]

I dunno about that. Bruce might just be resigned to Hulk's current status on Sakaar. When it comes to the actual revenge/invasion thing, I don't think Bruce will be okay with it.

Thing is, if they had asked Bruce, he might have agreed with being shot off in a rocket.


That said, if they had asked Bruce, he probably would have hulked out at some point and ruined the whole thing. So I guess they couldn't really have asked him.

[Samuraixsithlord]

so havn't read Planet Hulk so i got some questions to be answered

did the Hulk get all his powers back, i heard he lost like half his strength and his wolverine like healing ability.

Did his new Hulk persona show up during Planet Hulk or as a result of House of M.

You think Hulk will learn about all the Illuminati and go after all of them or just Ironman and Richards.

Has he become more powerful then before because even with himself and the legions of Sakaar will he be able to take out americas heroes

on a scale of 1 to 10 how f&^%ed are the Illuminati

[InfinityCorp]

so havn't read Planet Hulk so i got some questions to be answered

did the Hulk get all his powers back, i heard he lost like half his strength and his wolverine like healing ability.

Did his new Hulk persona show up during Planet Hulk or as a result of House of M.

You think Hulk will learn about all the Illuminati and go after all of them or just Ironman and Richards.

Has he become more powerful then before because even with himself and the legions of Sakaar will he be able to take out americas heroes

on a scale of 1 to 10 how f&^%ed are the Illuminati

Questions

#1) After the Hulk went through the worm hole "The Portal" he seemed to have a temporary loss of strength and healing powers. As the story went on he constantly got stronger and stronger. He now seems more powerful than ever; actually doing mindblowing feats of strength you would think only Superboy-Prime or Superman would be able to do! (Trying not to get to specific as not to "spoil" anything)

#2) In House of M The Hulk & Banner had a really interesting storyline in which he becomes friends with a Aborigine Tribe, and Banner starts to control the Hulk and his impulses to become the "Devil Hulk".
Now, after the events which set off Planet Hulk and his adventure into space he has certianly become harder, more skilled, and more focused. Banner physically has taken a backseat because he is basically useless in the gladiator pits and the battlefield. He certainly seems to have both the faculties of Banner and the powers of The Hulk currently, if that helps.

#3) The Hulk has the "resources" in the form of a video that came with the space vaction to find out exactly who did this to him and why. Not just Tony and Reed, but all of the Illuminati are on said video. He will be comming for all of them, and I personally think he will be most upset with Dr.Strange, what a stab in the back!

#4) He certainly does things in Planet Hulk that indicate he is indeed more powerful than ever. The other interesting thing is that Sakaar is a War-Torn Planet. Everyone fights likes its their job, and this includes some real heavy hitters. Everyone in The Hulk's warbound is a serious contender which includes guys like, Korg, one of the original Kronans who battled Thor for kicks, ect... I would put The Hulk and his Warbound tribe alone up against any team in the Marvel U. These guys basically fight all day and every day. In reality I think not just American heroes, but the collective Marvel U who will take notice when The Hulk declares War.

#5) This one goes to 11... They are seriously f&^%ed.

[Mean Mr Mustard]

I find it interesting that Hulk still has the reason for his sakaar nickname though (the green scar).

[nuclearman]

Oh, he's totally going to be betrayed by one of the Warbound. Probably Miek.

I'm just hoping Korg and Caiera survive the event.

Am I alone in disliking Miek?? - I hope he betrays the Green king and I really hope the Hulk squishes him like the bug he is. SPLAT:D

[stingerman]

Am I alone in disliking Miek?? - I hope he betrays the Green king and I really hope the Hulk squishes him like the bug he is. SPLAT:D

Hulk smash puny insect!

[riotgear]

Am I alone in disliking Miek?? - I hope he betrays the Green king and I really hope the Hulk squishes him like the bug he is. SPLAT:D

I agree. I liked him better when he was meek, not "King Miek".