Sentry’s Arrival in Thunderbolts Makes Hulk Look Pathetically Weak

As a passionate movie buff, I must say that the introduction of Sentry in Thunderbolts left an indelible impression on me, serving as a stark reminder of the potential missed opportunities with the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Among the diverse cast, Lewis Pullman’s portrayal of Bob stood out for me. Initially, we saw a timid and powerless Bob, but as the story unfolded, we learned that he was none other than Sentry, harboring a formidable dark side known as the Void. With his compelling performance, Pullman has left us eagerly anticipating his return in future Marvel Cinematic Universe installments.

At a minimum, it’s been confirmed that the actor will return for “Avengers: Doomsday,” which is currently in production. The end-credits scene of “Thunderbolts*” hinted at Bob’s struggle to suppress his transformation into Sentry to prevent the Void from emerging, suggesting how terrified he is of unleashing his villainous side. The extraordinary displays of power by Sentry and the Void in “Thunderbolts*” make him one of the most powerful characters within the franchise. I have a feeling that Marvel’s portrayal of Sentry directly contradicts how they’ve weakened the Hulk, who should be incredibly powerful.

Sentry’s Debut Showcases His Power Level To A Serious Degree

The Thunderbolts Could Not Do A Thing Against Him In A Fight

In the 2025 MCU film known as “Thunderbolts,” the highly anticipated introduction of the character Sentry is undeniably the most buzzed-about element. This character, who serves a role similar to Superman in Marvel comics, was previously portrayed by Richard Madden as Ikaris, another superhero with Superman-like qualities, in the movie “Eternals” several years ago. “Thunderbolts” did not hesitate to demonstrate Sentry’s immense power and his dark side, the Void. This is consistent given that even the team combined couldn’t defeat Sentry in a fair fight.

In awe of the incredible power displayed, I found myself pondering over the fact that battling a Superman-esque figure like Sentry calls for a whole new dimension of might. Characters such as Thor, Captain Marvel, and the Scarlet Witch may have held their own against him in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, yet the Thunderbolts failed to make so much as a dent during their encounter with him. The moment when Sentry adorned his suit reminiscent of his comic book appearance for the first time and engaged the Thunderbolts within the old Avengers Tower was nothing short of breathtaking. With an ease that left me speechless, he dispatched them one by one, even demonstrating his merciless nature by severing Bucky Barnes’ arm in a single stroke.

Following the clash between the Thunderbolts and Sentry, the MCU film demonstrated the immense power of the Void. By simply waving his hand, Sentry’s malevolent form can transform people into shadows on the ground. These shadows are then sent to “shame rooms,” where they are forced to relive painful memories and traumatic experiences from their past, with no end in sight. This not only poses a physical danger, but also a profound psychological one. Prior to Yelena Belova and the Thunderbolts intervening to stop the Void, New York was on the verge of being consumed by shadows.

The Hulk’s MCU Story Has Failed To Show The Full Range Of His Powers For Quite Some Time

Smart Hulk Takes Away From The Hero’s Impressive Power Level

Following my observation of Lewis Pullman’s Sentry appearing incredibly potent in Thunderbolts*, it sparked a persistent thought about the contrasting treatment given to Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk within the MCU. When I contemplate the character’s most remarkable accomplishments, I frequently find myself reminiscing back to Bruce Banner’s introduction in the MCU during 2008’s The Incredible Hulk and 2012’s The Avengers. These films are exceptional at demonstrating just how formidable the Hulk truly is, with his battle against the Abomination being a timeless classic, and his rampage as Savage Hulk among the Chitauri being nothing short of legendary.

The final fight scene in The Avengers, set in New York City, represented the most recent instance of Bruce Banner transforming into the Hulk on film. However, it’s hard to believe that this transformation has only occurred once in the past 13 years, given the significance of the character within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). In more recent times, Marvel Studios have combined the intellect and might of the Hulk, with Mark Ruffalo portraying what is known as “Smart Hulk.” Though this has resulted in some enjoyable scenes, it’s unfortunate that the character hasn’t displayed the same intensity and power previously associated with his uncontrolled rage. This lack of presence is a letdown.

The Way The MCU Handled Sentry’s Power Underlines How Wasted The Hulk & His Own Power Level Have Been

The Hulk Used To Be A Frightening Force In The MCU

In my opinion, it’s been quite disappointing to see Smart Hulk not have any standout moments since his introduction in the MCU. However, Sentry’s appearance in “Thunderbolts” really highlights how the franchise is missing the mark when it comes to portraying the Hulk as strong and formidable. Unlike the Hulk, who seems rather weak in recent years, Sentry embodies everything I had hoped for from the Hulk in terms of power within the MCU. With ease, he was able to take on all members of the Thunderbolts simultaneously, leaving them no chance. His overwhelming power instilled a sense of fear into the other heroes.

Confirmed Thunderbolts Cast Member	Character The Actor Plays
Sebastian Stan	James “Bucky” Barnes, A.K.A. The Winter Soldier
Florence Pugh	Yelena Belova, A.K.A. Black Widow
Wyatt Russell	John Walker, A.K.A. US Agent
David Harbour	Alexei Shostakov, A.K.A. Red Guardian
Hannah John-Kamen	Ava Starr, A.K.A. Ghost
Olga Kurylenko	Antonia Dreykov, A.K.A. Taskmaster
Julia Louis-Dreyfus	Contessa Valentina Allegra De Fontaine
Lewis Pullman	Bob (Sentry/The Void)
Geraldine Viswanathan	Mel

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Hulk was often portrayed in a certain manner. One of my favorite scenes featuring this character in the MCU is when Black Widow, played by Scarlett Johansson, had to flee for her life in “The Avengers,” with the Hulk hot on her heels, causing destruction everywhere in SHIELD’s helicarrier. Although a new solo movie for the Hulk in the MCU isn’t possible due to rights complications, it seems that Marvel could have developed the character further. I don’t entirely agree that Smart Hulk is the best direction for Banner; instead, I believe Savage Hulk, as depicted by Sentry, might be the better choice.

I Still Hope The MCU’s Hulk Can Show Off His Powers Again In The Franchise’s Future

The Upcoming Avengers Movies Could Bring Back The Savage Hulk

Over the past few years, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has presented the Hulk as less formidable, but I remain optimistic that this will alter with upcoming Marvel films. Mark Ruffalo, who plays the Hulk, is an actor not yet confirmed for “Avengers: Doomsday,” but it’s hoped he’ll be part of the film. The next two Avengers movies are rumored to oppose Doctor Doom, and there’s speculation that Fox’s original X-Men might clash with the MCU’s heroes at some point. Fierce battles against the X-Men and Doctor Doom could rekindle the Hulk’s ferocious nature.

As a die-hard Marvel fan, I can’t help but get pumped up about the whispers suggesting that the Green Goliath, aka the Hulk, might turn villainous in the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day! Now, Marvel Studios has kept mum on this matter, but let me tell you, if it’s true, we could be in for a treat as it’d mean the return of the Hulk’s ferocious side.

With the Sentry joining the MCU in the upcoming Thunderbolts, Marvel has a golden opportunity to elevate the Hulk’s power levels even further. And speaking of which, there are rumors swirling about an adaptation of World War Hulk, where we could witness the epic showdown between Sentry and the Hulk – just like in the comics! A battle that could end in a stalemate, pure awesomeness!

2025-05-28 17:51