German audiences will soon enjoy ‘Captain America: Brave New World,’ featuring the Red Hulk, a new villain distinct from the original Hulk. Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross, now played by Harrison Ford, undergoes a significant transformation, gaining powers from gamma radiation and cosmic rays. Unlike Bruce Banner, Ross’s transition is gradual and fraught with challenges, including a dangerous body temperature increase when enraged. This film sets the stage for future Marvel releases, including ‘Thunderbolts’ and ‘The Fantastic Four.’
Captain America: Brave New World – A New Villain Emerges
As of February 13, 2025, German audiences can experience the excitement of ‘Captain America: Brave New World’ in cinemas. This thrilling blockbuster introduces the Red Hulk, a formidable new villain in the Marvel universe. However, don’t be fooled into thinking he is merely a red version of the beloved green Hulk. There are crucial distinctions that set these two rage-infused titans apart!
The Transformation of Thaddeus Ross
The character behind the Red Hulk, President Thaddeus ‘Thunderbolt’ Ross, first made his appearance in ‘The Incredible Hulk.’ Initially portrayed by William Hurt, the character has evolved through various films. Following Hurt’s passing in 2022, the iconic Harrison Ford has taken up the mantle of Ross, bringing new life to this longstanding character.
While Ross has been a veteran figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), his metamorphosis into the Red Hulk marks a significant turning point. In this film, we delve into the origins of his powers, which originate from gamma radiation, complemented by cosmic rays in the comics. Unlike Bruce Banner, whose transformation was a result of a singular accident, Ross’s journey to becoming the Red Hulk was gradual and deliberate.
Power Dynamics: Red Hulk vs. Green Hulk
In ‘Captain America: Brave New World,’ viewers witness a weary Ross battling a serious illness, ultimately aided by Dr. Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson). The medication developed for Ross contains radioactive elements, allowing him to be exposed to small doses of radiation over an extended period. In contrast, the comic version of Ross actively seeks out the power of the Hulks through self-experimentation.
Bruce Banner transforms into the green Hulk whenever he experiences intense anger or excitement, which can complicate his personal life, especially regarding relationships. Conversely, Ross is just beginning to navigate his newfound powers in ‘Brave New World.’ A key difference is that when Ross becomes enraged, his body temperature escalates dramatically, enabling him to melt sand into glass using just his heat.
This unique trait also presents a vulnerability for the Red Hulk, as he lacks control over his body temperature. If he overheats, he risks reverting back to his human form. Unlike the green Hulk, who gains strength with rage, the Red Hulk faces the danger of transformation back into Thaddeus Ross as his anger intensifies. The film adapts this aspect, suggesting that both hulks return to their human state through calmness.
By making this adjustment, the film enhances the Red Hulk’s strength compared to his comic counterpart. But does this make him more powerful than the green Hulk? Harrison Ford’s response during an interview with Emmy winner Jake Hamilton was characteristically intriguing.
Looking ahead, the next Marvel cinematic experience set to hit theaters is ‘Thunderbolts’ on May 1, 2025, followed by ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ on July 24, 2025. Stay tuned as we keep you updated with all the latest Marvel releases!