The Official 'Hulk in Avengers' thread. [Archive] - Page 3

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 08:01 AM

The story originated from Drew McWeeny...he's a pretty reliable source.

He's been wrong before, too.

Im assuming Norton didnt want to be Bruce Banner anymore...

didnt he have some squabbles with the director of TIH?

He's said several times that he'd like to be involved again. And it's believed that the guy he had troubles with was David Maisel, who is no longer at Marvel. Ed and Leterrier got along pretty well afaik.

I still think he's in and this whole affair is to drum up interest 2 weeks before CC.

OptimusPrime114

07-10-2010, 08:09 AM

Somebody tell me that I don't have to worry about this!

I'm feeling very anxious!:csad:

KangConquers

07-10-2010, 08:16 AM

Ipodman

07-10-2010, 08:22 AM

Is there any other site other than Hitflix that is reporting this?

Just to check its credibility

AVEITWITHJAMON

07-10-2010, 08:32 AM

Well if this is true, then Marvel have truly, seriously f**ked up in my eyes, do they expect just keep re-casting roles and that no one will notice?

I know its not confirmed yet but this is an absolute joke if true, and this is coming from someone who wasnt that big a fan of TIH.

Ipodman

07-10-2010, 08:53 AM

Well since they have already recast freaking Warmachine... they could recast anyone other than Iron Man himself i guess

Nirvana

07-10-2010, 09:25 AM

Such bull****. :down

I really hope it's just a rumor...:csad:

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 09:27 AM

People are really going to start to hate the Hulk character. I mean, he's Marvels tent pole character behind Spidey and they can't get things right with him. I had my criticisms about Norton being Banner, but re-casting Banner for Avengers is not only going to f-up the continuity, there's a possibility that they might get a less than stellar actor to play the role...and this doesn't look good for future Hulk films and the possibility of TIH sequel. :csad:

jadejaws

07-10-2010, 09:30 AM

This is a travesty in every sense....

Aztec

07-10-2010, 09:30 AM

This movie will be fine without Norton. TIH was so far marvel's weakest film, and It's not like Norton's performance was upto scratch with RD Jr's or anything. It was pretty phoned in.

Norton probably had unreasonable demands about screen time, creative control and money that marvel just could not match.

Phoned in?

The guy helped re-write the script, used his face to model the CGI, and took the project because of his well stated love for the character (watch any interview with him he knows all about the character).

I'm so sick of clueless comments about Norton "phoning it in".

Norton is on the best actors of our generation he hasn't "phoned in" any role he's taken on; he will be sorely missed from The Avengers.

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 09:41 AM

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 09:41 AM

Phoned in?

The guy helped re-write the script, used his face to model the CGI, and took the project because of his well stated love for the character (watch any interview with him he knows all about the character).

I'm so sick of clueless comments about Norton "phoning it in".

Norton is on the best actors of our generation he hasn't "phoned in" any role he's taken on; he will be sorely missed from The Avengers.

I thought that was one of the problems with TIH, It water down Hulks monstrous face when they blended Norton's face into the design. We went from this: :up:

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s42/indirav1/HulkConceptArt.gif

To what we got on screen.

Bruce Banner

07-10-2010, 09:59 AM

Phoned in?

The guy helped re-write the script, used his face to model the CGI, and took the project because of his well stated love for the character (watch any interview with him he knows all about the character).

I'm so sick of clueless comments about Norton "phoning it in".

Norton is on the best actors of our generation he hasn't "phoned in" any role he's taken on; he will be sorely missed from The Avengers.

Other than "The Italian Job" I would agree.

Regardless whether this being a ruse or not with Nortons involvement. The speculation over the past two years has been aggrivating. Having my favorite character casted all over again is something obviously that isn't pleasant.

Even if I wasn't a fan of the characters, I think I would have wanted to watch quality actors like Downey and Norton play off of one another would be worth the price of admission alone.

Microchip

07-10-2010, 11:38 AM

I just hope this is either a)completely fake or b) a heavy-handed tactic by Marvel to negotiate. I mean, Norton was kind of flipping and flopping on whether he wanted to be in the movie, so maybe Marvel feels they might as well do the same. With so much time left before casting needs to become official, who knows what'll end up happening.

I think we'll find out relatively for sure at ComicCon. Until then, I'll take this with a grain of salt too.

topdog1

07-10-2010, 11:46 AM

Getting rid of Norton is a HUGE mistake. Not just continuity wise, but because he honestly enjoyed playing Banner and gave him that nervous pathos that the 616 and the Ultimate version has. I don't likes it.

Anger growing... you won't like us when we're angry, Marvel! Enough fan backlash could get them back to the table... unless this is just a ploy.

If they had left certain character scenes in Incredible Hulk, it would have been a masterpiece. They cut a 10/10 film down to 8/10 territory at best. Anyone that saw the deleted scenes on the DVD knows Norton was right.

Ed Norton's on record saying he wants to play the role again. Maybe I'm still in denial but I'm hoping this is some kind of ploy and that Marvel will pull a fast one and surprise people at Comic Con and announce Norton as Banner. Again, they are either SEVERELY underestimating Norton's appeal as Banner and how much ALL the fans are going to complain or they're faking us out but good. I pray it's the fake out. Movie fans everywhere, not just fanboys, deserve to see Downey and Norton on screen together.

Microchip

07-10-2010, 11:49 AM

I really do hope he's coming back, and that this guy's just wrong. He doesn't really specify his sources, and just last week Chewy said he had sources that Norton would be in the movie AND at ComicCon. So who knows who all these sources are. We just have to wait until ComicCon, things'll become more clear there...

Moridin

07-10-2010, 11:50 AM

The schedule for Saturday at CC has:
11:15-12:15 Marvel: Cup O' Joe— This is it, Mighty Marvel fans—the no-holds-barred, anything-goes, full-of-surprises panel you've waited for all year! Marvel's EEK (editor-in-chief) and CCO Joe Quesada takes on all questions, shocks the audience with jaw-dropping announcements, and keeps you guessing with surprise guests. You never know who will show up, but you better be here, because this is the panel that everyone will be talking about! Room 6BCF

6:00-7:00 Marvel Studios: Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger— Producer Kevin Feige and special guests give you an inside look at the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Hall H

Spider-X

07-10-2010, 11:51 AM

Regarding the latest Edward Norton Hulk news:

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! !!!

:csad::csad::cmad::csad:

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 11:58 AM

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! !!!:csad::csad::cmad::csad:

4yfr_Zj1iU4

Son of Coul

07-10-2010, 12:01 PM

Spider-X

07-10-2010, 12:01 PM

4yfr_Zj1iU4

exactly :csad:

Symbiotic

07-10-2010, 12:03 PM

Marvel, for the love of God, pay the man what he wants.

Pac-Master

07-10-2010, 12:03 PM

This is terrible news if true. I think Banner is just as important to the Avengers as the Hulk (no Banner and only Hulk would kinda ruin it for me). I think Norton did an awesome job, and really hope to see him back.

FlawlessVictory

07-10-2010, 12:08 PM

If they had left certain character scenes in Incredible Hulk, it would have been a masterpiece. They cut a 10/10 film down to 8/10 territory at best. Anyone that saw the deleted scenes on the DVD knows Norton was right.

I couldn't agree with you more. Speaking of which, is there any chance at all of us still getting a Norton cut of this movie? I understand all the scenes are on the DVD but I want a version of the movie with a lot of those characters scenes integrated into the film. Frustrates me so much at what could have been.

Microchip

07-10-2010, 12:20 PM

I couldn't agree with you more. Speaking of which, is there any chance at all of us still getting a Norton cut of this movie? I understand all the scenes are on the DVD but I want a version of the movie with a lot of those characters scenes integrated into the film. Frustrates me so much at what could have been.
Some of the scenes were pretty bad though. The Doc Sampson stuff was really good and should have stayed, the pizza boy scene was pretty entertaining but there was a lot that needed to go.

Anything with Ross's assistant in it was generally pretty bad. She wasn't a good actor. Out of the 45 minutes or so that they cut, maybe 15 should have stayed, and then we would have had a good balance of action and drama.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 12:29 PM

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/3346/teamedface1.jpg

FlawlessVictory

07-10-2010, 12:44 PM

Some of the scenes were pretty bad though. The Doc Sampson stuff was really good and should have stayed, the pizza boy scene was pretty entertaining but there was a lot that needed to go.

Anything with Ross's assistant in it was generally pretty bad. She wasn't a good actor. Out of the 45 minutes or so that they cut, maybe 15 should have stayed, and then we would have had a good balance of action and drama.

I agree. I wouldn't want all the scenes that were cut to be put back into the movie. But there were definitely certain ones that deserved to stay in.

John Locke

07-10-2010, 12:54 PM

31g0YE61PLQ

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 12:54 PM

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 01:03 PM

Maybe you should wait for the whole story before you start calling people *****es.

As has been mentioned, this same thing happened with Sam Jackson, Favs and Mickey Roarke. Marvel isn't going to suddenly drop the ball right here at the endgame. Odds are that Ed is already in and they're just waiting for CC to announce it.

Stop drinking the koolade... but maybe... just maybe, the fan backlash can turn the tide. Seemed to have an effect with the Cap casting. I am not saying we matter, but we can't let this pass. There is no reason to believe this is nothing more than cutting back to budget a couple million and cutting one less ego from the room. I don't know if Feige is a control freak or what, but he has to start taking some heat for this.

Unacceptable...

dcHulk

07-10-2010, 01:15 PM

Just like 99% of Marvel fans, I'm ticked. But Marvel is not getting away with this. Someone is going to say something at CC. If this is true, I would have loved to be at the panel just to scream at them when they started talking. Are they trying to screw over quite possibly the biggest action movie of all time?

Spidey Snooch

07-10-2010, 01:22 PM

Frank Whaley for Banner!

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 01:24 PM

No worries for fans... plenty of other CB movies due out that year. If Avengers underwhelms, everyone will divert their attention to BB3 and everything else due out, and Avengers will go by the wayside. I'll probably be there OW, but that will be all. If I am not thoroughly impressed by Thor and Cap, I may not be there period. Got to wait until IM3.

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 01:46 PM

Excelsior.

07-10-2010, 01:55 PM

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 01:58 PM

The only way they can pull this off with little backlash as possible, is to not have Banner in Avengers at all. TIH set it up so that it looks as though either Banner had full control of Hulk, or Hulk had taken over Banner (hence the evil grin). The best play would either be to have someone like Mr.Fixit or The Professor Hulk in the movie.

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 02:05 PM

You WILL be there. Midnight showing. Even if Cap and Thor(unlikely) dissappoints.

2 out of 4 characters will probably get me in. If they both disappoint, I won't be there.

Spider-X

07-10-2010, 02:12 PM

I´m tired of this, if they want want to recast him then do it, they recasted Rodes for iron man 2 and they were both very different in looks, if the actor and the story are good then i don´t care.

I'd normally be down with this...but Ed Norton is AWESOME and Don Cheadle is a better actor than Terrance Howard, so that was a win win.

I really REEEEEEEEEALLY don't want Ed Norton out of the picture :(

viki

07-10-2010, 02:18 PM

If you're on Twitter I started this earlier today... http://twitter.com/Norton4Avengers... so feel free to follow. There are 18 followers thus far, which is pretty pathetic.

Dreadful news if you ask me, though I am well into continuity across the board. Marvel seems to be treating this whole Avengers series as if it's a practise run.

Asteroid-Man

07-10-2010, 02:42 PM

Well let's wait for comic con. Seriously, no other actor in their right mind should even take on this role. Comic book fans would tear them down.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 03:02 PM

Marvel Studios has been known to check this board for opinions. So if you're reading this thread make sure to post and express your outrage over this decision. Even if this report is true it doesn't seem as though it's at a point where the decision is irreversible yet.

Samuel L. Jackson once said that it looked like Marvel was going to go with someone else when his negotiations weren't going terribly smoothly

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 03:10 PM

I believe that at the end of the day Marvel thinks that no-matter who they cast or re-cast for their big name heroes, the fans will eventually accept it, simply because their characters are ssssooooo iconic and huge.........and you know what? They're right. :csad:

Spider-Vader

07-10-2010, 03:23 PM

I'm thinking this a bluff. Marvel saw that Ed's return got leaked, so they're lying real quick to cover it up.

Rock Sexton

07-10-2010, 03:34 PM

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/3346/teamedface1.jpg

Chewy,

How hard to stand behind your sources?

Rock Sexton

07-10-2010, 03:35 PM

I know this may sound crazy, but The Incredible Hulk is the best superhero film I have seen since Spider-Man 2, I loved it alot. To not see Norton again will bring me something I don't want to have, frustration at Marvel.

I'm with you. It's still my favorite out of all the Marvel films.

Again, they do this and I'm holding out until it comes out on DVD. If true this is probably the most small-time, naive move Marvel could ever make re-casting such a legendary character for the FARKING third time in seven years. That's ridiculous and it will come off ridiculous on screen as EVERYONE still remembers Norton as Banner/Hulk.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 03:45 PM

Chewy,

How hard to stand behind your sources?
What I was told is very similar to the backstory in Hitfix's piece. That Whedon and Norton had met and were very enthusiastic about it and that Whedon was planning to announce Norton at comic-con after a deal was finalized.

Whether that has since changed, I don't know. Whether someone high up at Marvel or some extenuating circumstances caused a change, I don't know, Whether Hitfix's report is true or not, I don't know. We'll find out in two weeks.

Son of Coul

07-10-2010, 03:47 PM

I know people from the GA who are still listing Rhodey's recast as a complaint for IM2, which is interesting given the big fans are pretty forgiving of it, myself included. Recasting Edward Norton of all people would only piss everyone off, GA included.

Doing this would also damper the character's image further and attest to the naysayers' claim that Hulk can't be translated to movies, which is ridiculous. Show some confidence with the character. Lord, there's a million reasons why they shouldn't do this.

Axl Z

07-10-2010, 03:47 PM

I'm with you. It's still my favorite out of all the Marvel films.

Definitely, Nortons version of Banner in The Incredible Hulk was fantastic, it would be a real shame if he wasn't in The Avengers..
I dont think audiences will ever take to The Hulk if they recast again.
Ed Norton is great in the role.. DON'T LET HIM GO MARVEL!!

(And if you've any say in it keep Nick Cage in GR2 as well!) :woot:

OptimusPrime114

07-10-2010, 03:51 PM

Remember last week when the "Josh Hutcherson/Spidey" rumor went so out of control, it prompted Sony to announce Andrew Garfield as Spidey?

Well, what happens if the same thing happens with this rumor?

Son of Coul

07-10-2010, 03:58 PM

You mean them announcing Norton to mend this? Then we rejoice and high five and laugh and cry with happiness.

OptimusPrime114

07-10-2010, 03:59 PM

You mean them announcing Norton to mend this? Then we rejoice and high five and laugh and cry with happiness.
Yeah!

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 04:02 PM

You mean them announcing Norton to mend this? Then we rejoice and high five and laugh and cry with happiness.

Oh I hope so.....those that believe in prayer need to start praying NOW!

Obi-Ron

07-10-2010, 04:25 PM

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/3346/teamedface1.jpg

lol

I'm just filing all this under "rumor" until official word is announced. I hope they don't recast.

Son of Coul

07-10-2010, 04:42 PM

This Comic-Con seems like the time to really unleash the Marvel domination with announcing-

Thor footage
Cap photos/concept art
Joss Whedon as Avengers director
Avengers news- villains, casting, story ideas, etc.
short films
lower budget films
Dr. Strange director
other projects being planned

this could all be tarnished by one very bad casting news article, so don't blow your big year, Marvel. Just sign the ****er and please the world.

Blitzkrieg Bop

07-10-2010, 04:45 PM

Replacing Norton would not only be a mistake because of his excellent acting ability, but it would also be one more nail in the coffin for the Hulk.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 05:02 PM

Replacing Norton would not only be a mistake because of his excellent acting ability, but it would also be one more nail in the coffin for the Hulk.

Indeed, :(. Hulk doesn't deserve it....hes such a great character....

ironman29758

07-10-2010, 05:15 PM

Indeed, :(. Hulk doesn't deserve it....hes such a great character....
I don't get it either. Norton was a great actor and the producers said that the Incredible Hulk was a great sucess and Norton said he might rejoin the cast so why are choing a different actor. please tell me it's a joke.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 05:21 PM

McWeeny had this to say on Twitter:Simply put, they're lowballing him. They could make the deal right now. And it sounds like he and Whedon loved each other.Yep, sounds exactly the same as the SLJ/Rourke situations. And I'd be surprised if it didn't end similarly. Especially since Norton clearly has the fans on his side

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 05:24 PM

McWeeny had this to say on Twitter:Yep, sounds exactly the same as the SLJ/Rourke situations. And I'd be surprised if it didn't end similarly. Especially since Norton clearly has the fans on his side

Watch it, hoss, if you aren't fanning your hands about with worry like a teenage girl before her first date you aren't doing it properly. Optimism and logical thought are not allowed.

viki

07-10-2010, 05:37 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/blogs/2008-12-6-motion-captured/posts/exclusive-marvel-confirms-they-will-hire-new-hulk-for-avengers

Confirmed.

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 05:43 PM

f*** marvel

Chewy

07-10-2010, 05:44 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/blogs/2008-12-6-motion-captured/posts/exclusive-marvel-confirms-they-will-hire-new-hulk-for-avengers

Confirmed.

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."
:csad::csad::csad::csad::csad::csad::csad::csad:

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 05:45 PM

Suck my **** Marvel cause I ain't sucking yours anymore.

Microchip

07-10-2010, 05:47 PM

A "name actor"? Which talented name actor would step in? I'd seriously lol if it was Bana but Hollywood's not that big of a place and doing so could be seen as a tremendous F-U to Norton. Honestly, I'm embarrassed for Marvel. They're not conducting themselves well here at all, and unless Norton pulled some really bad stuff that we just don't know about, this is unnecessary and foolish.

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 05:49 PM

F*** Kevin Feige, dudes a straight up moron. He always seemed like a douchey little b***, this confirms it.

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 05:51 PM

Well, that blows. I take everything back.

Terrible decision. :down

misjuevos

07-10-2010, 05:56 PM

Chewy

07-10-2010, 05:58 PM

A "name actor"? Which talented name actor would step in?
I'm sure finding a replacement won't be too hard.

But this is a horrible decision :csad:

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 05:59 PM

who knows maybe they are trying for johnny depp or something. anyway i still think putting the hulk only is better. dont need banner. maybe for quick little setup, but just have the hulk that can talk. dont be scared of cg acting hulk.

B.S. that you don't need Banner.

F- this decision.

I'm jumping ship, Batman 3 better be the #1 movie in 2012 and I hope this tanks.

Mister Sinister

07-10-2010, 06:03 PM

By the sounds of that statement, Norton wasn't being a team player.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 06:07 PM

God dangit!

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:07 PM

That statement essentially boils down to "**** you Edward Norton"

Sawyer

07-10-2010, 06:08 PM

Marvel can eat ****. As much as I was looking forward to The Avengers, I'm not going to reward their ****ty decision-making by paying money to go see it.

This really pisses me off. I loved TIH.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 06:12 PM

Marvel can eat ****. As much as I was looking forward to The Avengers, I'm not going to reward their ****ty decision-making by paying money to go see it.

This really pisses me off. I loved TIH.

I loved TIH so much, I love Marvel too, but what the hell is wrong with them...the only way i'm seeing Avengers now is if a friend(s) want to see it. My money is probably better spent on the Spidey reboot and Batman 3.

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 06:13 PM

If I do end up seeing this in the theater, I'll pay money for whatever the competition is then sneak into the showing. Otherwise, I'm going to be streaming this.

I wish I could go to comic-con to throw eggs or something at that moron Fiege.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:14 PM

Obviously this isn't just a money issue. Someone pissed someone off. You don't send out a statement that is a big slap in a highly regarded actor's face just because he wouldn't accept a lowball offer.

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 06:16 PM

Will be interesting to learn what the problem was, if it ever gets out.

Maybe Ed wanted an Oscar-worthy scene where Hulk eats Freddie Prinze Jr. and the studio balked. :D

Mister Sinister

07-10-2010, 06:18 PM

Thank God comic book fans don't have the nuclear codes.

Seriously, we don't know half the story, from what Norton said about telling Marvel we wanted him in the movie, he was basically saying 'tell Marvel I'm worth the $100million I'm demanding', blaming it all on Kevin Feige is just wrong when it's based on...well nothing.

Either way, I'll still be in the theater the day this movie comes out. And I'm sure you will too.

Sawyer

07-10-2010, 06:19 PM

Did Whedon and Norton really hit it off? Because hopefully Whedon goes to bat for him and tells Marvel to stop being a bunch of ****s about this, and maybe get Norton to settle down a bit too (I'm sure the blame for this isn't entirely Marvel's).

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 06:23 PM

I don't even know why we bother anymore. It's so frustrating to the fans the follow these movies religiously. Every news, every development, every rumor or scoop... BS or not. Then they slap us in the faces like this. Then to top it off with, "we need a more talented actor... it wasn't about money." How ****ing stupid do you think we are? We gave them every opportunity, I guarantee to anyone that this will be another forgettable, mediocre, popcorn blockbuster.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:24 PM

My money is probably better spent on the Spidey reboot and Batman 3.
Because neither would consider recasting roles when things don't work out, right?
I don't even know why we bother anymore. It's so frustrating to the fans the follow these movies religiously. Every news, every development, every rumor or scoop... BS or not. Then they slap us in the faces like this. Then to top it off with, "we need a more talented actor... it wasn't about money." How ****ing stupid do you think we are? We gave them every opportunity, I guarantee to anyone that this will be another forgettable, mediocre, popcorn blockbuster.
They did not say "more talented". They said "more collaborative".

OptimusPrime114

07-10-2010, 06:24 PM

I will still see the Avengers, regardless of who is the next Banner. As long as he is a great actor.

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 06:25 PM

OptimusPrime114

07-10-2010, 06:27 PM

Really people?!

You just gonna give up on the Avengers just because one actor won't return for a certain role?

So sad!:csad:

misjuevos

07-10-2010, 06:29 PM

also this trying to get the fans on his side is nothing more than a negotiating ploy. he can go to marvel and say sure ill return but i want a pay increase look the fans want me back. i won't be used to get some actor a pay raise. he is a good actor but its not like they are doing anything but pretending. so get someone else so what. the hulk will be the same, just different banner. i like the hulk, banner is not needed for avengers, just hulk movies

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 06:29 PM

Really people?!

You just gonna give up on the Avengers just because one actor won't return for a certain role?

So sad!:csad:

Marvel's giving up on the fans, so I'm giving up on them.

topdog1

07-10-2010, 06:30 PM

I will still see the Avengers, regardless of who is the next Banner. As long as he is a great actor.

I think Marvel knows we all will see Avengers regardless but it's the level of devotion that they should take in to consideration. Grass roots fan support is worth millions in advertising alone. Hell, I was passionate about Iron Man 2 and had fun channeling that passion. I've paid to see the film a dozen times and know I've influenced many friends and family to buy tickets. Plus, talking it up around the net to this day. Flushing a talent like Norton for no reason really cools the fire and will either make fans luke-warm or flat out angry. Not the best of ideas in either case.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:30 PM

Really people?!

You just gonna give up on the Avengers just because one actor won't return for a certain role?

So sad!:csad:
Welcome to SHH. When disappointing news comes along, suddenly everyone is evil and the entire movie is going to be horrible.

Obviously this is incredibly disappointing news, but the sky is not falling

Compi716

07-10-2010, 06:31 PM

Yeah sure i'll be there opening weekend, but like I said, my ticket stub will read something other than Avengers.

Why would you do that? Out of protest for them not keeping an actor? Why bother seeing it anyway? Because you love the genre, right. And you want there to be more films like this. Which means they need your money.

Recasting is NOT the end of the world. I thought Katie Holmes was fine on Batman Begins, but was it such a big deal when she was recast? No. And this won't be either. Hopefully, everything will even out.

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 06:32 PM

Because neither would consider recasting roles when things don't work out, right?

They did not say "more talented". They said "more collaborative".

yet the Wheldon/Norton meeting had the two hitting it off???? This is MONEY... money and egos. Here's a studio that nearly undermined Favs after IM. We thought the Disney move would put all this crap behind them. It's as if Disney now has a gun to their heads, with "Here's our lofty expectations, meet them and the lowest budget possible and the fewest headaches."

viki

07-10-2010, 06:32 PM

Whilst I'm aware of the fact that my absence will barely register, I really will be boycotting the rest of these movies. Though I probably shouldn't care so much, I'm finding this whole debacle embarrassing. I really am at a loss for words. I cannot for the life of me believe that it has come to this. It's a joke. In many various ways I invested in this series of films. I organised trips for my friends and I to see TIH and IM2. I allowed myself to get excited by the possibilities inherent in such a cinematic undertaking. And now it's this horrible thing that looks dreadful to me, that laughs at me for giving a s***, this pointless, disposable, bad-TV-grade failure of a franchise. Marvel has spent a fortune on the cheapest thing going. Just appalling.

co2

07-10-2010, 06:32 PM

I'm less excited for this film now.

With Norton on board Hulk would have had a good chance to be one of the best parts of the film. Now....Hulk will be just a plot device.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:32 PM

Flushing a talent like Norton for no reason really cools the fire and will either make fans luke-warm or flat out angry. Not the best of ideas in either case.
Presumptuous

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 06:32 PM

Because neither would consider recasting roles when things don't work out, right?

Oh....right....Hugh Jackman seems to be the only actor who isn't going to have his role recasted anytime soon. :dry: (which isn't nessecarily a bad thing, I like Hugh's Wolverine)

misjuevos

07-10-2010, 06:34 PM

sha1243

07-10-2010, 06:35 PM

There still going to see the movie there just really mad right now. Obviously Norton and marvel had a disagreement and this was its outcome. Now me personally I don't care who do they choose to play Banner in the avengers movie because it ain't about him its about the Hulk and avengers so this doesn't really change my mind about the avengers movie.

topdog1

07-10-2010, 06:35 PM

Yeah sure i'll be there opening weekend, but like I said, my ticket stub will read something other than Avengers.

See, that's my point. EVERY movie I've seen since May 7th has had my ticket stub read "Iron Man 2" regardless of what I actually walked in to watch. I'll pay to see Avengers but that kind of passion will be lost with moves like this Norton announcement.

Iron_Stark

07-10-2010, 06:36 PM

Why would you do that? Out of protest for them not keeping an actor? Why bother seeing it anyway? Because you love the genre, right. And you want there to be more films like this. Which means they need your money.

Recasting is NOT the end of the world. I thought Katie Holmes was fine on Batman Begins, but was it such a big deal when she was recast? No. And this won't be either. Hopefully, everything will even out.

Please don't compare Katie Holmes to Edward Norton. :facepalm:

My main reason now for seeing this is Iron Man and RDJ, but since Iron Man 3 is pretty much guaranteed, they're not getting my money for this.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:36 PM

yet the Wheldon/Norton meeting had the two hitting it off???? This is MONEY... money and egos. Here's a studio that nearly undermined Favs after IM. We thought the Disney move would put all this crap behind them. It's as if Disney now has a gun to their heads, with "Here's our lofty expectations, meet them and the lowest budget possible and the fewest headaches."
Entirely hypothetical question: what if the problem is that Norton rubbed RDJ the wrong way? Is Marvel still the devil?

There is no point blaming anyone since we don't know the full story. And jumping to the ridiculous conclusions that you in particular are jumping to is silly.

phillyboy

07-10-2010, 06:37 PM

Damn shame, Norton was the only one with enough chops to go toe to toe with Downey.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 06:41 PM

I love to see comic book movies, even if they aren't very good...heck I love Ghost Rider, X3 is enjoyable to watch if I turn my complaining...ness? off, heck i'm very easy to please when it comes to seeing superheroes on the big screen! I might even like Jonah Hex when I get around to seeing it. But out of everything, no Edward Norton in Avengers annoys me more than anything! But because of my enjoyment of comic book films I will likely somehow end up seeing this anyways. :/

topdog1

07-10-2010, 06:41 PM

when norton did the hulk im sure he thought nothing of what marvel was trying to do with the avengers. now its coming to fruition he wants back in, tough luck buddy your ship sailed. stop trying to pander to the fans, he threw that "i would like to return" out there just to get the fans behind him and not accept whoever replaces him. all that being said wait till sdcc then we will see whats going on.

What exactly did he do? Get ticked off that Marvel cut character out of an exceptional film??? Add a few of those character defining deleted scenes we all saw on the DVD and Incredible Hulk would be considered a masterpiece. Norton and Leterrier were indeed right. Now, he can move past that but, apparently, Marvel won't seems ridiculous to me. I'm not privy to inside intel but Norton is anything but a moron. If he were to appear in Avengers he has to know that it would be in a limited ensemble role. Sign that contract and worry about IH2 way later.

topdog1

07-10-2010, 06:44 PM

I might even like Jonah Hex when I get around to seeing it.

No you won't, trust me. Has nothing to do with comic adaptation whining, that thing is just awful cinema, period.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 06:46 PM

No you won't, trust me. Has nothing to do with comic adaptation whining, that thing is just awful cinema, period.

Oh....well....Megan Fox is already a huge thing in getting me not to see it...so maybe I won't ever see it. :p

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 06:46 PM

Entirely hypothetical question: what if the problem is that Norton rubbed RDJ the wrong way? Is Marvel still the devil?

There is no point blaming anyone since we don't know the full story. And jumping to the ridiculous conclusions that you in particular are jumping to is silly.

I'm not jumping to conclusions. You are taking Marvel's words at face value and that's fine. That's one side to a story here. TIH was four years ago. If they couldn't put a chopped theatrical cut behind them then both parties are to blame. You said it yourself that this is basically a **** you Norton. It's obvious Marvel was unhappy with Norton's actions after TIH and they never got over it. It's not about actors being below the characters. It's about actors gaining too much leverage over the executives and Feige's camp. This is an ego move, and they obviously didn't think Hulk was important enough to the story. Marvel undermined the character.

OptimusPrime114

07-10-2010, 06:47 PM

No you won't, trust me. Has nothing to do with comic adaptation whining, that thing is just awful cinema, period.
I agree. Don't watch it!

Chewy

07-10-2010, 06:50 PM

I'm not jumping to conclusions. You are taking Marvel's words at face value and that's fine. That's one side to a story here. TIH was four years ago. If they couldn't put a chopped theatrical cut behind them then both parties are to blame. You said it yourself that this is basically a **** you Norton. It's obvious Marvel was unhappy with Norton's actions after TIH and they never got over it. It's not about actors being below the characters. It's about actors gaining too much leverage over the executives and Feige's camp. This is an ego move, and they obviously didn't think Hulk was important enough to the story. Marvel undermined the character.
I am not taking their words at face value. I am recognizing that their words likely have much more behind them than any of us will ever know. And this is the very definition of jumping to conclusions:It's as if Disney now has a gun to their heads, with "Here's our lofty expectations, meet them and the lowest budget possible and the fewest headaches."

DocHoliday

07-10-2010, 06:51 PM

This news makes me angry. I mean I understand that Norton might be difficult (I'd say he cares) but so are lots of the great actors. You don't throw him to the curb over him being difficult. I really hope Marvel re-considers what they are doing here.

topdog1

07-10-2010, 06:59 PM

I'm not jumping to conclusions. You are taking Marvel's words at face value and that's fine. That's one side to a story here. TIH was four years ago. If they couldn't put a chopped theatrical cut behind them then both parties are to blame. You said it yourself that this is basically a **** you Norton. It's obvious Marvel was unhappy with Norton's actions after TIH and they never got over it. It's not about actors being below the characters. It's about actors gaining too much leverage over the executives and Feige's camp. This is an ego move, and they obviously didn't think Hulk was important enough to the story. Marvel undermined the character.

Not that I disagree but Feige is no dummy either. He's done a nice job himself with his role in various projects over the years. This isn't his first rodeo. Marvel was obviously afraid of making IH too stagnant like Ang Lee's Hulk so, the gave in to that fear. Feige has to know that move was a mistake at this point. The film lost depth and some substance and it did NOT blow up at the box office. So, after seeing what was cut and the box office results, it's clear that Norton and Letterier were right. Feige may worry about losing future pull if he admits it but it's as clear as the nose on his face. What's worse, being known for being stubborn and thick-skulled or admitting you were wrong and moving forward?

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 06:59 PM

I would say that Norton is the most seasoned actor that has ever played a Marvel character. They were lucky to get him in the first place.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 07:03 PM

I would say that Norton is the most seasoned actor that has ever played a Marvel character. They were lucky to get him in the first place.
Ian McKellen? Patrick Stewart? Jeff Bridges? Anthony Hopkins?

Not that I am in any way putting down Norton, but come on.

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 07:03 PM

I am not taking their words at face value. I am recognizing that their words likely have much more behind them than any of us will ever know. And this is the very definition of jumping to conclusions:

Sarcasm has no place here anymore I guess... look, we can sit here all day and say we'll never know what happened, let's just wait and see. That's all well and good. The point of discussing this **** is to piece together what happened, why it did, how everything led to this. Those comments make it perfectly clear that "Norton wasn't a team player... he did not promote the film... he talked negatively about the studio that ultimately delivered the product." Instead of trying to mend those rifts, making this stuff work, it's another one strike and you are out... with Howard... now Norton. Basically, we are bigger than you and we are going to do whatever the **** we want.

misjuevos

07-10-2010, 07:03 PM

marvel was just starting out with their movies. they only had iron man and they are still new. maybe they felt like norton speaking out was just to much. its their character norton was just the vessel. maybe they didnt like his interpretation after the fact. they had just came off of iron man with fav and rdj getting along and having fun. then they come to norton who is being a little anal with their stuff. they start work on iron man 2 and see fav and rdj still getting along after the big success not to mention how they really have championed the movie. then cut back to norton who comes out and says stuff about not liking the cut of the hulk film. i mean thats gotta chap marvels ass.

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 07:12 PM

I'm strating to think that Marvel is centering everything around Iron Man. They themselves admitted they didn't realize how big it was going to be. They even held back promoting TIH because they were scared a lesser known character like IM needed much more than Hulk. Now that IM is a cash cow for them, it's IM this..and IM that.

misjuevos

07-10-2010, 07:16 PM

maybe it was due to fav going around pimping the movie, i dont remember louie doing anything.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 07:17 PM

Ian McKellen? Patrick Stewart? Jeff Bridges? Anthony Hopkins?

Not that I am in any way putting down Norton, but come on.

:hehe: Marvel is so lucky to have such great actors in their films.

BETArayBill

07-10-2010, 07:17 PM

I just read a report that downey would like bathroom breaks during filming and marvel said that would be unacceptable so there thinking of replacing him as iron man:oldrazz:

FaT_tONle

07-10-2010, 07:19 PM

topdog1

07-10-2010, 07:26 PM

Spider-Vader

07-10-2010, 07:50 PM

B.S. that you don't need Banner.

F- this decision.

I'm jumping ship, Batman 3 better be the #1 movie in 2012 and I hope this tanks.

Yeah, you won't be saying that after seeing the trailer & finally seeing the big 3 together on-screen.

Damn shame, Norton was the only one with enough chops to go toe to toe with Downey.

How do you know? Have you seen Hemsworth as Thor or Evans as Cap? No, so don't say that until you've actually seen those movies.

I'm siding with Chewy, you guys are all morons... Esecially if Marvel is pulling your legs & will announce his return at Comic Con. If they don't, I'll be pissed. But I won't come to drastic conclusions like "I'M NOT SEEING DIS MOVIE!" "I HOPE THIS BOMBS" "WORST MOVIE EVER!"

R_Hythlodeus

07-10-2010, 07:54 PM

worst news ever, if true. this is for marvel movies what the supernova was for the romulan homeworld...

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 07:56 PM

I'm siding with Chewy, you guys are all morons... Esecially if Marvel is pulling your legs & will announce his return at Comic Con. If they don't, I'll be pissed. But I won't come to drastic conclusions like "I'M NOT SEEING DIS MOVIE!" "I HOPE THIS BOMBS" "WORST MOVIE EVER!"

Hey! :p Some of us are just upset at the moment! It will calm down....for some people...:woot:

Obi-Ron

07-10-2010, 08:07 PM

To be honest, as long as Hulk is in the Avengers I really don't care who plays Banner. Norton was good and it would be more consistent to keep him, but I have no interest in all the backstage jibber-jabber. The character and the fans deserve better than that.

terry78

07-10-2010, 08:11 PM

It would just bug me to not have the Avengers dealing with Banner AND Hulk. The fact that they knew Hulk was also this milquetoast scientist added more depth to their attempts to bring him down, and ultimately trust him as a teammate.

TheVileOne

07-10-2010, 08:23 PM

Ultimately I feel it was a mistake to cast Norton in the first place.

It's not for no reason. Norton has a rather notorious reputation in this town you simply can't ignore.

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 09:20 PM

Errr... maybe there's more to this story then I thought...

http://www.hitfix.com/blogs/2008-12-6-motion-captured/posts/exclusive-marvel-confirms-they-will-hire-new-hulk-for-avengers

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

If Kevin Feige was quoted correctly then that's quite harsh and quite the slap at Norton. Not a team player??? Not a collaborative spirit???

Wow, this really throws Ed under the bus. It's basically saying that he's a spoilt prick that wants things his way all the time.

al35077

07-10-2010, 09:31 PM

I just hope they know what theyre doing. I'd almost rather they just fight hulk and only mention banner than to have them change actors. its not just because i like norton's portrayel, its just almost never good to switch actors in connected movies

samsnee

07-10-2010, 09:36 PM

***** these guys. I'm not paying to watch the Avengers now.

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 09:36 PM

Like i said before, just don't show Banner at all. Have Grey Hulk or Professor Hulk in Avengers.

venom892

07-10-2010, 09:37 PM

I liked Norton as Banner,But if he was going to become an obstacle to The Avengers production then it was the right choice.

MarvelMovies

07-10-2010, 09:42 PM

This is the first bad bit of news I've heard about the Avengers. That said, I'll be seeing this movie at midnight no matter who is cast.

Everything to date has been excellent to hear and to report, but no Edward Norton means another new actor for Bruce Banner, which will be sad to see. Norton is a fantastic actor and has the experience for instant credibility.

Hopefully Feige changes his mind and Norton is able to come back somehow.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 09:50 PM

Even if Feige were to change his mind, Norton won't be coming back after that statement which was essentially a swift kick to his nuts

Shame

dcHulk

07-10-2010, 10:10 PM

Golgo-13

07-10-2010, 10:17 PM

Marvel is going to have to find a real talent equal to that of Norton to get out of this.

Let's all face it: it appears that Marvel has decided that the Hulk is a throw-away character.

And forget any thoughts of a TIH sequel. It's pretty much set in stone now that what ever storyline was started in TIH has been scrapped.

It's a damn shame. All the while Universal had Hulk, he was treated half-way decent. He gets back to his home studio of Marvel, and they treat him like a step-child.:csad:

terry78

07-10-2010, 10:18 PM

It's a damn shame. All the while Universal had Hulk, he was treated half-way decent. He gets back to his home studio of Marvel, and they treat him like a step-child.:csad:

A green-headed stepchild.

TheVileOne

07-10-2010, 10:31 PM

You guys need to get over it. The Incredible Hulk was not that successful.

I'd sooner they just cut Hulk and Banner out of the movie completely. They really don't need him.

Doc Ock

07-10-2010, 10:38 PM

You guys need to get over it. The Incredible Hulk was not that successful.

I don't care how successful it was, I loved it and thought it was far better than Iron Man.

TheVileOne

07-10-2010, 10:50 PM

Blah blah bloddy bloddy blah. No one gives a ****.

Iron Man is a bonafide franchise. Hulk even with a reboot couldn't get the job done.

No one is going to care that Norton was replaced. Norton as great as he is, never should've been cast as Banner at all.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 11:01 PM

No one is going to care that Norton was replaced.
Obviously this thread, and similar threads all over the internet are proof otherwise.

Is this going to affect the general audience's view of the movie? Probably not. Are fans going to be disappointed by this move? Yup. It's not the end of the world but it is sad to see that Marvel couldn't work things out with one of their four leads in the buildup to Avengers.

jadejaws

07-10-2010, 11:03 PM

Another sad thing to consider (depending on your viewpoint) is that marvel will most likely change the design of the Hulk to something completely different now. (sigh)....anyone want to bet they make him look like the lame @ss ultimates version?

Saint

07-10-2010, 11:05 PM

Errr... maybe there's more to this story then I thought...

http://www.hitfix.com/blogs/2008-12-6-motion-captured/posts/exclusive-marvel-confirms-they-will-hire-new-hulk-for-avengers

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

If Kevin Feige was quoted correctly then that's quite harsh and quite the slap at Norton. Not a team player??? Not a collaborative spirit???
Yeah, that sounds like a pretty final decision. Weak. I may have preferred Bana, but Norton was solid and the cast is likely to be weaker for his absence.

No one is going to care that Norton was replaced.
Obviously incorrect, as there are people in this thread who care. Really, you're hardly going to convince anyone who liked his performance that it "Doesn't matter" by citing the Hulk's low financial success.

07-10-2010, 11:05 PM

Oh well. TIH was an average film, and Norton's performance was dry and boring. Life goes on.

Bring on The Avengers.

Rock Sexton

07-10-2010, 11:09 PM

By the sounds of that statement, Norton wasn't being a team player.

My *****ing arse ....

"We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

WTF is Feige talking about? Not passionate about The Hulk? Is he out of his over-paid, overrated producer mind? This is *****in' horse chit. This is a joke. This is definitely about money, always will be. Like I said, have fun with the movie boys, I'm not watching it. Marvel's "bulletproof" status just went to junk bond status. *****'em.

They put the nail in the coffin with the Hulk character. Three re-casts in 7 years? That's pathetic. I bet you they're actually going to kill off the character in the movie.

Saint

07-10-2010, 11:13 PM

WTF is Feige talking about? Not passionate about The Hulk? Is he out of his over-paid, overrated producer mind? This is *****in' horse chit. This is a joke. This is definitely about money, always will be. Like I said, have fun with the movie boys, I'm not watching it. Marvel's "bulletproof" status just went to junk bond status. *****'em.
If it was about money I really doubt Marvel would burn Norton with the comments about team-playing. That would be deeply unprofessional. Making these comments under any circumstances is unprofessional, but if the reality isn't what they suggest, then even more so. It seems more likely that Norton wanted something (besides money) they just didn't want to give him.

07-10-2010, 11:14 PM

Why would it be about money? Disney has tons of money. Can you imagine how much RDJ will be getting for the film?

Charlie No-One

07-10-2010, 11:16 PM

Norton isn't important and has always been said to be a ***** to work with. He isn't a team player. It's his way or the highway. Plus, it probably is financial, regardless of what the studio says. In a huge ensemble film, Norton probably would have 15 minutes of screen time. Banner will be the Hulk the majority of the movie probably. It wouldn't make sense to pay millions of dollars for an actor of such acclaim to appear for such a short period of time, especially if he is hard to work with.

terry78

07-10-2010, 11:16 PM

My issue with Marvel is how easy they can just replace actors without giving it a second thought. These are supposed to be live action incarnations of our favorite characters and it just don't sit right. This is not like a telemarketing job where they can just pick up someone and fire you because you're expendable.

Chewy

07-10-2010, 11:18 PM

Can you imagine how much RDJ will be getting for the film?
Probably more than the rest of the cast, combined

07-10-2010, 11:22 PM

Rock Sexton

07-10-2010, 11:27 PM

They're killing off the Hulk or relegated him to cameos.

Norton deserves better anyways. This movie was getting borderline overcrowded to begin with. Marvel and Feige would rather have the uninspiring likes of Eva Longoria and Nathan Fillion involved in this than a class guy like Norton.

It's going to be a complete joke watching the rest of that cast get overshadowed by RDJ. The Chris Evans thing had me scratching my head, I mean crap we almost had that dope from The Office locked in for that part .... but this is absurdity on a whole other level. And to come out swinging at the man's nutts like that, sounds like Feige was being ULTRA defensive about something. Cheap fuuuuck.

Whiskey Tango

07-10-2010, 11:35 PM

Is it too late to hire Blaine Blumpkin III for Banner? The kid is ready to break loose, this could be just what he needs!

Rock Sexton

07-10-2010, 11:40 PM

Is it too late to hire Blaine Blumpkin III for Banner? The kid is ready to break loose, this could be just what he needs!

Stop trying to make me laugh ..... :cwink:

I'm seriously irate about this. I was about to purchase airline tickets for CC tomorrow with my buddy. Not happening now. How is it that Joss Whedon can hit it off so well with Norton (I mean after all he's doing the re-writes and is directing) and yet Feige comes out and kidney punches the guy with all that blasphemus nonsense?

I'm pissed. Really really pissed. I've held back on my reservations about this film, but this is going to open the flood gates for me personally.

Son of Coul

07-10-2010, 11:45 PM

Well **** **** **** **** ****.

I'd really like to know what happened that made Feige deliver such a swift kick to the nuts in that statement. Whether it was Feige, Whedon, Norton, another producer, or another actor somebody was definitely being an *******.

...maybe it's all a joke... right? :(

PWN3R

07-10-2010, 11:58 PM

Really disappointed with the Norton situation. Just sad.

What the hell was the point of The Incredible Hulk then? :csad:

07-11-2010, 12:06 AM

Really disappointed with the Norton situation. Just sad.

What the hell was the point of The Incredible Hulk then? :csad:

Considering its box office, and the fact that most of it was a rehash of HULK, no point at all I guess.

I mean, it's not like there was ever going to be a sequel to that film.

Doc Ock

07-11-2010, 12:14 AM

Really disappointed with the Norton situation. Just sad.

What the hell was the point of The Incredible Hulk then? :csad:

Indeed! I have no idea....:(

Da-Scribe

07-11-2010, 12:15 AM

Beyond disappointed. I was really looking forward to what Norton had to bring to the table, especially with the other cast members. It's going to take something amazing for me to care what happens with this series from here on out.

TheVileOne

07-11-2010, 12:30 AM

THE INTERNET IT TELLZ ME THINGZ!!!11

Whatever. The movie didn't do that well. So obviously not that many people aren't going to care he's not coming back.

Norton has an ego and has to assert a lot creative control and influence on his projects.

I think hiring Norton in the first place for the Hulk movie was a risk that should not have been taken.

Son of Coul

07-11-2010, 12:35 AM

THE INTERNET IT TELLZ ME THINGZ!!!11

Whatever. The movie didn't do that well. So obviously not that many people aren't going to care he's not coming back.
That's a very stupid assumption to make, especially given the feedback on any site reporting this, or y'know- the thread you're posting in.

Surprised they're even responding to the rumor so fast and directly to a news site given they're history. I guess Feige is trying to soften the blow by having people sit on the news for a couple of weeks. One thing's for certain, Feige would be committing suicide going out on that Thor panel in front of all those bloodthirsty fans.

TheVileOne

07-11-2010, 01:05 AM

So what? A few people on the internet are butthurt BOO FREAKING HOO! People whine on the internet constantly 24/7 even on these forums.

Yeah, fans aren't going to do anything to Feige in San Diego. They will all cheer and kiss their butts then go online and ***** like the little cowards that they are.

People in general didn't care that much either way about Norton.

Marvel made the best choice in avoiding primadonnas and drama.

Pac-Master

07-11-2010, 01:07 AM

Bad move Marvel. Bad move.

This is terrible news.

TheVileOne

07-11-2010, 01:30 AM

Once again I feel the bad move was getting Norton several years ago. Because this is the result of all that.

Now we are stuck in another recasting situation. I don't like it, but thems the breaks. I'm not going to get heartbroken over it because I've got better things to do in life.

Obviously if people are that passionate about it, they should've gone and seen TIH more than once.

LostSon88

07-11-2010, 03:25 AM

Disappointing...that's all I have to say.

:csad:

jmc

07-11-2010, 04:34 AM

I think the statement is a huge slap in the face for one of the best actors going around, Marvel surely would have known before hand what kind of actor Norton was, this BS about him not being a team player is code for 'we have no control over him'. I believe if he was involved with Avengers and the story wasn't good enough Norton would flat out say it, Hemsworth certainly wouldn't, Evans wouldn't, RDJ would maybe be the only other one who might say something, but Norton would definitely call them out if the script wasn't up to scratch, but Marvel can't have that can they? Everyone's gotta be on the same page regardless of how good the story is. If Marvel wanted a bunch of Yes Men they should have stuck with unknowns for all the characters.

TheFuture

07-11-2010, 05:32 AM

Ultimately I feel it was a mistake to cast Norton in the first place.

It's not for no reason. Norton has a rather notorious reputation in this town you simply can't ignore.

A notorious reputation built around a refusal to hand out a sub standard piece of film. Whichever way you want to look at it, you can bet your ass that the reason he's not taking part in The Avengers is that there must be something wrong with script, or the director's vision for the film.

Sarg92

07-11-2010, 05:58 AM

A notorious reputation built around a refusal to hand out a sub standard piece of film. Whichever way you want to look at it, you can bet your ass that the reason he's not taking part in The Avengers is that there must be something wrong with script, or the director's vision for the film.

Norton and Whedon met and they got on really well. Whedon wants him in the film and Norton wants to be in it but Marvel said no.

Casius--J

07-11-2010, 06:01 AM

So we're getting a third bruce banner??? Sigh*** I guess it wont make THAT much of a difference as bruce shouldnt get too much screen time, rather it will be the hulk that takes up most of that role.

Kevin Roegele

07-11-2010, 06:08 AM

What amazes me is the wording of the statement. 99 out of a hundred studios would say, "We thank Edward and were honoured to work with him, and we now feel the time is right to press ahead with a new vision of the character and a new actor to embody him." But no, Marvel come out with a message that more-or-less says Norton is not a team player, not collaborative and not welcome.

How weird it would be if Eric Bana came back-?!

jmc

07-11-2010, 06:12 AM

Norton and Whedon met and they got on really well. Whedon wants him in the film and Norton wants to be in it but Marvel said no.

If that's the case then it seems more like a preventative measure in case he 'doesn't comply' with what they want. All Norton wants to do is make good films, that's why he can be a little tough to work with. If Marvel are worried about him speaking up if he doesn't think something is working the onus is on them to ensure the story is good enough to begin with so that he doesn't have to.

The Impaler

07-11-2010, 06:18 AM

jmc

07-11-2010, 06:20 AM

What amazes me is the wording of the statement. 99 out of a hundred studios would say, ''We thank Edward and were honoured to work with him, and we now feel the time is right to press ahead with a new vision of the character and a new actor to embody him.'' But no, Marvel come out with a message that more-or-less says Norton is not a team player, not collaborative and not welcome.

How weird it would be if Eric Bana came back-?!

Yeah, it was a very poorly worded statement.

jmc

07-11-2010, 06:27 AM

Its highly unlikely, but what happens now if Whedon, RDJ, Hemsworth and Evans all come out and say that Nortons a big loss and they were looking forward to working with him? Anybody think Marvel would u-turn if the major players were that upset?

I think the debacle that was Hulk has more or less sealed Norton's fate. I kinda feel sorry for the poor bastard who replaces him, imagine at Comic Con if they do some big announcement with all the cast and everyone's there, RDJ, Hemsworth, Evans, Scarlett, SLJ, Whedon and.......some other dude no-one's heard of or cares about. TIH is more or less as redundant film in this series now.

Kent

07-11-2010, 06:34 AM

Let's hope this turns out like with Sam L. Jackson.
Not that I remember it ever going quite this far with him, but I do recall there being a point where he was basically out of the game as Fury, and then all of a sudden they announced his 9 picture contract.

Dark Raven

07-11-2010, 06:37 AM

"We have made the decision to not bring Tony Stark on board for the key role of Iron Man in the Avengers," wrote Fury. "Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an operative who embodies the humility and collaborative spirit of our other talented team members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, Ant Man and all of our talented operatives. We are looking to announce a name operative who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the important role in the coming weeks."

Scandalous

07-11-2010, 06:50 AM

No way Norton comes back now. Marvel just burned that bridge, buried it, dug up the gravesite and shot it into space.

They've got to think they have Sharlto Copely (as mentioned in the HitFix piece). He's the only "name actor" who'd be a better choice than Norton.

TheFuture

07-11-2010, 08:18 AM

Norton and Whedon met and they got on really well. Whedon wants him in the film and Norton wants to be in it but Marvel said no.

What's the issue so? I don't think it's financial. You saying Norton and Whedon got on well flies in the face of everything Feige said so someone is lying.

akfj

07-11-2010, 08:25 AM

In other news:
Actor Edward Norton named UN goodwill ambassador

http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/07/08/un.norton.goodwill.ambassador/?fbid=uHtkVr2fJrL

Maybe he'll be unavailable. :cwink:

terry78

07-11-2010, 08:33 AM

TheFuture

07-11-2010, 08:39 AM

I am confused to when being a good actor coupled with a reputation for being a hardass and wanting perfection became a bad thing. If you're a diva, but suck as an actor you really don't get any sympathy, but most of the actors that we love on here do kind of act like a-holes when something on the production is not going right.

Crowe and Bale just to name two. I have no issue with an actor calling a studio on sub-standard efforts, it shows that they actually care about the project.

Retroman

07-11-2010, 09:27 AM

This is disappointing news because we loose a very good actor in Edward Norton and recasting means that (once again) there are going to be continuity issues in the Marvel movie universe.:(

But in all honesty the writing has been on the wall since the day Marvel hired Norton. They gave him a lot (maybe too much) creative power by letting him rewrite the script and i guess that lead him to believe that he could have a major say in the editing room of the film. That's where the relationship started to go sour and as a result Norton barely did any promotion for Incredible Hulk.:o

If they give him that kind of leverage on Avengers who's to say the other stars won't want the same? You can't have that on a film this size or else it becomes a mess. So i can understand why Marvel made this unpopular (and probably tough) decision for their biggest movie to date.
They've got to think they have Sharlto Copely (as mentioned in the HitFix piece). He's the only "name actor" who'd be a better choice than Norton.
Sharlto Copley as Banner? I can dig that!:up:

AVEITWITHJAMON

07-11-2010, 10:28 AM

Big, big, BIG **** up by Marvel this, I wasnt that impressed with Norton in TIH, but that was because they cut all the best character scene's out, and if they had given him more to work with he would have been better.

TIH is just a waste of time, this is ridiculous, Hulk is my main draw for this movie, with another Banner, I am just not sure I am interested anymore.

Do Marvel think they can just re-cast everyone and no one will notice?

ClarkLuther55

07-11-2010, 10:43 AM

This is so disappointing. The appeal of The Avengers is to build off of the previous Marvel films and give people an unprecedented level of continuity between movies that aren't direct sequels to each other. Now a very talented actor has been given the boot, and some new guy is going to stick out like a sore thumb in the big team up movie.

I actually think that The Incredible Hulk suffered from a lack of promotion, and from the stigma of Ang Lee's weird and talky 2003 version of The Hulk. Because while the movie has some flaws, I really enjoyed the hell out of it. The cast was terrific, and there was an appropriate amount of action for a Hulk movie. I really liked the whole fugitive approach that recalled the classic 1970s series, and thought that this movie was Hulk done right.

I admit that I don't know what happened behind the scenes. Maybe Norton was a jackass, who knows. But like many other people here, I'm extremely surprised at the way that Marvel worded their statement. They totally burned their bridges with Norton, and left no chance of patching things up with him before the movie shoots. It's such a shame that things didn't work out.

07-11-2010, 10:49 AM

Don't shoot me but seeing as they are looking for a new Bruce Banner, what about Sam Worthington?

Reason I suggest him is I hear Marval want a 'name actor' to take Norton's place & he'd certainly fit that bill.

I actually thought about Sam Worthington suiting the Bruce Banner role a while back when I'd seen him in a few movies. It may sound like acting 101 but when he is playing calm he looks supremely calm & when hes playing angry he looks supremely angry..

I know it may sound stupid but in relation to Eric Bana I thought he played calm Banner ok but when he was playing a Banner 'getting mad' he looked stupid..

Meh, just my 2 cents anyway.

07-11-2010, 10:52 AM

Oh & FYI, I thought TIH was supremely better than Ang Lee's Hulk & I actually liked Norton in the role.. but if hes gone it isn't any skin off my nose. There are plenty of actors capable of being Bruce Banner.

terry78

07-11-2010, 10:53 AM

07-11-2010, 11:02 AM

He looks a little too built to be Banner. Banner should be kinda docile looking in comparison to Hulk.

Anyone looks kinda docile compared to the CGI Hulk they used in TIH. :D

Though in Avatar Sam Worthington looked really like your average guy, certainly as much as Edward Norton was in TIH.

Chris B

07-11-2010, 11:18 AM

Honestly, I'd like to think that this is all a ruse, until we get official confirmation at least, in order for an announcment declaring Norton's return to have a much greater impact than it would otherwise. I mean, Feige's comments are just so unproffessional that I have hard time believing any legit studio exec would iterate the situation with such harsh words.

But if it all turns out to be true, then I'm disappointed. I really liked TIH and thought Norton was good as Banner. Recasting the role would really put a damper on the film.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 11:22 AM

Anyone looks kinda docile compared to the CGI Hulk they used in TIH. :D

Though in Avatar Sam Worthington looked really like your average guy, certainly as much as Edward Norton was in TIH.

Sam ****ing Worthington? :cmad:

C'mon bro. C'mon.

Good job Feige! What a piece of work this guy is. Calling out an actor like that. Ya, what "non-team" player .... just recently named a U.S. Ambassador for God sakes.

If Joss met with Norton, liked him, and wanted him in it then Feige is a bold-faced lying sack of turd. You know, the truth is Marvel has been running on a lot of fumes stemming from the first IM. Feige thinks every decision he's made has been untouchable in relation to all the other franchises. Now TIH has been rendered completely USELESS. That whole scene with RDJ appearing in TIH is now USELESS. This isn't like switching out some non-important secondary part - this is the freaking Hulk.

FEIGE YOU ARE A STEAMING PILE OF CRAP!

The backlash against this is going to be hilarious. I guarantee you they just lost some of the BO they would've gotten with Ed Norton's name alone. Feige's got no class man, no class. We don't see any public statements being made by Norton, and Feige's dumbaaaasss decides to BBQ him like that.

Not getting my money for this turd now, that's for sure.

The Incredible Hulk

07-11-2010, 11:24 AM

This sucks. I loved Norton in TIH and was looking forward to seeing him as Banner again in a sequel or The Avengers.

Also, that's a pretty classless statement from Marvel and Kevin Feige. They might as well have come out and said "Norton's a jerk and doesnt play well with others."

Friggen Marvel.

Another way to take this is that Norton read the script and thought it was garbage and wanted rewrites done (like he did on TIH), and Marvel balked at him this time.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 11:29 AM

Now, Drew McWeeny of HitFix is reporting that Marvel plans to hire an unknown to play the Hulk in The Avengers. Reportedly, Norton even met with Joss Whedon (who, it must be said, is still unconfirmed but is actively working on the film) and the two hit it off very well. Norton supposedly even cleared his schedule with goodwill. But no offer has been extended to him. In fact, Marvel has made it clear that they're moving on and giving the role to someone else -- someone cheaper. McWeeny writes, "In early conversations, it sounds like a deal could be made here, and simply wasn't. Norton's desire to return to the role was so palpable at SXSW, and that was before he met with Whedon, that I can't imagine he would refuse to negotiate or find some way to satisfy Marvel. So the question is really why won't Marvel try to make Norton happy at all when he obviously brings so much weight to the team?"

http://www.cinematical.com/2010/07/10/edward-norton-wont-play-hulk-in-the-avengers-updated/

An "unknown" ..... I think by now we all know what that means ..... it's the money. Lying bastard Feige.

The Incredible Hulk

07-11-2010, 11:34 AM

http://www.cinematical.com/2010/07/10/edward-norton-wont-play-hulk-in-the-avengers-updated/

An "unknown" ..... I think by now we all know what that means ..... it's the money. Lying bastard Feige.

:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm::facepalm::facepalm: :facepalm:

Now THIS pisses me off. Unfreakingbeleivable, Marvel you stupid, cheap jackasses. :cmad:

At this point, why even bother having Banner in the film? Just have the same CG Hulk and at least try to salvage some sense of continuity.

:bh:

Charlie No-One

07-11-2010, 11:38 AM

I don't understand how the recent Hulk movie is now useless. It is still connected with the Avengers. It is still in continuity. Stark never talked to Banner. He talked to Ross. Everything still works. Norton didn't do anything groundbreaking so this isn't like a huge switch up. A new actor is playing Banner, who will probably be in the movie for 15 minutes anyway before turning into the Hulk. Dear God. Can't you guys be happy that you are getting an AVENGERS movie? And by the looks of Thor, Iron Man, and Captain America, its gearing up to be pretty impressive and faithful to the comic books. Relax.

Norton WASN'T a team player. He wanted too much control. I study and work in theater. Regardless of how crappy a production turns out, the director is in charge. If an actor doesn't agree with the director, boo hoo. It isn't their call and it is pretty disrespectful to try and change the director's vision. Norton always tries to take control of movies he's involved with. The Incredible Hulk wasn't the only one. It may fly for him to do that with smaller movies, but in a huge ensemble flick, it would cause too many problems.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 11:39 AM

:facepalm::facepalm::facepalm::facepalm::facepalm: :facepalm:

Now THIS pisses me off. Unfreakingbeleivable, Marvel you stupid, cheap jackasses. :cmad:

At this point, why even bother having Banner in the film? Just have the same CG Hulk and at least try to salvage some sense of continuity.

:bh:

Because the part is going to be treated as cheaply as the actor they're hiring to play it. It's pretty obvious. They've given up hope on the character, when this is the exact type of film he could shine in. I remember when Joe Carnahan was interviewed and he talked about Marvel reaching out to him to possibly direct. He went on to say that one of the ideas being thrown around was to turn the Hulk completely bad and kill him off. It appears we're headed down that path.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 11:41 AM

I don't understand how the recent Hulk movie is now useless. It is still connected with the Avengers. It is still in continuity. Stark never talked to Banner. He talked to Ross. Everything still works. Norton didn't do anything groundbreaking so this isn't like a huge switch up. A new actor is playing Banner, who will probably be in the movie for 15 minutes anyway before turning into the Hulk. Dear God. Can't you guys be happy that you are getting an AVENGERS movie? And by the looks of Thor, Iron Man, and Captain America, its gearing up to be pretty impressive and faithful to the comic books. Relax.

Norton WASN'T a team player. He wanted too much control. I study and work in theater. Regardless of how crappy a production turns out, the director is in charge. If an actor doesn't agree with the director, boo hoo. It isn't their call and it is pretty disrespectful to try and change the director's vision. Norton always tries to take control of movies he's involved with. The Incredible Hulk wasn't the only one. It be fly for him to do that with smaller movies, but in a huge ensemble flick, it would cause too many problems.

.....uhhh but he met with Whedon and liked what Whedon was doing. Thanks for playing though.

And yes the continuity it ****ed because you're swapping actors for a leading role again. It's like you wake up one morning and the woman next to you is some sloth and not your beautiful wife. It's going to stick out like a sore thumb.

Charlie No-One

07-11-2010, 11:47 AM

.....uhhh but he met with Whedon and liked what Whedon was doing. Thanks for playing though.

And yes the continuity it ****ed because you're swapping actors for a leading role again. It's like you wake up one morning and the woman next to you is some sloth and not your beautiful wife. It's going to stick out like a sore thumb.

Just because he was happy when he met with Whedon doesn't mean he will be happy when the movie goes into production. I bet he was pleased with what he was hearing about the Incredible Hulk when he signed on too. We all know what happened then.

The general audience will not care that Bruce Banner is a different actor. I guarantee he wouldn't be a major player anyway. The Hulk will be in it a lot more than Banner will. It will be fine.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 11:52 AM

Just because he was happy when he met with Whedon doesn't mean he will be happy when the movie goes into production. I bet he was pleased with what he was hearing about the Incredible Hulk when he signed on too. We all know what happened then.

The general audience will not care that Bruce Banner is a different actor. I guarantee he wouldn't be a major player anyway. The Hulk will be in it a lot more than Banner will. It will be fine.

You SEVERELY underestimate the general audience. Continuity is a huge issue with everyone, not just purists. People know Norton WAS the Hulk just a few years ago. He's a well received actor. It would be the equivalent of removing RDJ as Iron Man.

Charlie No-One

07-11-2010, 11:55 AM

Golgo-13

07-11-2010, 11:56 AM

^Unfortunately, that is true. :csad:

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 11:58 AM

No it really wouldn't be. Iron Man is a huge successful franchise. TIH underperformed. By the time the Avengers comes out, most of the general public will have forgotten about the Hulk. And if they haven't, they honestly will not be bothered by the switch. The movie will be successful with or without Norton.

TIH did not under-perform because of Norton. Nobody would've even seen the movie has Norton not been cast. It already was suffering from being rebooted so soon from Ang's and the fact that yet another lead actor was portraying the character. Marvel showed the movie no respect during promotion time and stuck it to Norton on the editing floor. Ya, Marvel's fault, NOT Norton's.

You seem to think the GA just forgets because of a few years spaced in between. There's nothing true about it whatsoever.

Microchip

07-11-2010, 12:00 PM

The general audience will not care that Bruce Banner is a different actor. I guarantee he wouldn't be a major player anyway. The Hulk will be in it a lot more than Banner will. It will be fine.
Actually, since Superhero movies are pretty much 100% mainstream, the general public will care about stuff like that. The only difference is they'll find out about this from TMZ or when they go see the movie, rather than knowing ahead of time from reading forums with inside scoops. It won't change how much they care about the change.

And how can you guarantee that Hulk won't be a major player? Read the script? Fierge just said they were going for a name actor.

Charlie No-One

07-11-2010, 12:01 PM

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 12:05 PM

You are naive if you think that the general public will not see the movie because of a cast switch. The big green Hulk is the selling factor. Not the actor playing Banner. Also, the promotion was not Marvel at all. It was Norton. He refused to do much promotion because he didn't get his way. That is fact.

Some will stay away, but the fact of the matter is a lot of people would've been drawn to this movie because of Norton's name .... now that is no longer the case.

Neither Norton nor Marvel spent much time promo'ing ..... and in Norton's defense, I can understand why. Marvel screwed with the movie and put more emphasis on Iron Man, feeling as though it needed more attention since it was a B-List character.

Sarg92

07-11-2010, 12:05 PM

I think it is just clear that Marvel don't want there to be a TIH franchise.

They did not market the film when it first came out because apparently it would take away Iron Man's thunder so TIH played second fiddle to Iron Man.

After TIH, Feige ignores all questions about TIH sequels and says that Hulk could appear in other Marvel films which means he is relegated to a supporting character.

Joe Carnahan then says that he was approached by Marvel to direct The Avengers and when he read the script and the ideas that were being pitched; it had Hulk as the main villain which was Marvel's idea to kill off any possibility of there being a TIH franchise.

So I reckon that Marvel are going ahead with the idea of killing off any chance of a TIH franchise and don't wanna pay Norton big money for one film when they know his character would never return so instead they are gonna go after an unknown who won't mind just being in one film.

Golgo-13

07-11-2010, 12:20 PM

Some will stay away, but the fact of the matter is a lot of people would've been drawn to this movie because of Norton's name .... now that is no longer the case.

As much as would love to believe that, most will not stay away because Nortons not returning. He's a known name, but when you're playing a character like Hulk, Hulk himself is the big draw, not the actor playing him. It's different in the case of RDJ as Stark because it was evident by IM2, and the amount of Stark screen time we got, that RDJ was IM's selling point and not the IM suit itself. His charisma is what sold the first movie, and they rammed that down our throats even more so in the second movie. With Hulk, that is not the case. Banner is not really a charismatic character to begin with, and Norton played him with no charisma at all. Now if someone had played him like Bixby, where the audience connected with Banner more so than Hulk, then i'm sure Marvel would do whatever it takes to get that actor back back. The fact of the matter is that most ppl don't care about the Banners that have been played by Bana and Norton, they're just waiting in their seats for him to Hulk-out.

Armored Avenger

07-11-2010, 12:25 PM

pjspider1C

07-11-2010, 12:37 PM

This almost makes me wonder why Marvel even bothered with the individual character films beforehand. Considering they have been made purely as a means to get to "The Avengers" you would think the reasons behind them would be for continuity purposes, seeing an actor as an individual hero and then working in a team environment. But seeing as Marvel has no problem recasting one of the major characters of the team and one of their most iconic heroes I guess the continuity with the previous films is of no concern.

Edward Norton had helped write & edit The Incredible Hulk. However, there was some tension between him and Marvel over the final cut of the film, because Edward's version didn't get used - Marvel had the final say. Edward Norton, despite how talented he is - can be very difficult to work with. And his creative needs need to be on par with the other major cast members. I'm guessing he wanted more and Marvel said no. Ed Norton is very picky, high-maintenance, and a bit full of himself... which doesn't work well in an ensemble cast. While I will miss him in the role of Bruce Banner, I'm not surprised to hear this. It'll be interesting to see who they find.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 12:41 PM

Edward Norton had helped write & edit The Incredible Hulk. However, there was some tension between him and Marvel over the final cut of the film, because Edward's version didn't get used - Marvel had the final say. Edward Norton, despite how talented he is - can be very difficult to work with. And his creative needs need to be on par with the other major cast members. I'm guessing he wanted more and Marvel said no. Ed Norton is very picky, high-maintenance, and a bit full of himself... which doesn't work well in an ensemble cast. While I will miss him in the role of Bruce Banner, I'm not surprised to hear this. It'll be interesting to see who they find.

I think one of these male mannequins would fit their budgetary and creativity constraints.

http://kingsdisplay.com/Mannequins/MM1.jpg

pjspider1C

07-11-2010, 12:45 PM

^^ LOL... to play Bruce Banner, that's all you really need! :) Who gives a f##k about Banner? It's the HULK we want to see runnin' around smashin' sh#t! :)

Aztec

07-11-2010, 12:50 PM

Wow Kevin Feige RIPPED Norton in that statement. I wasn't expecting such a strong and personal attack in a publicity statement like that. Wow! There must have been some real behind the scenes fireworks that we are not aware of; either that or Feige just never forgave Norton for not promoting TIH.

Terrible decision by Marvel IMHO. I really wanted Norton in this film.

Slushy

07-11-2010, 12:52 PM

Edward Norton, despite how talented he is - can be very difficult to work with.

Who cares if he's difficult to work with? He did such a great job in TIH that its nothing, but stupid on Marvel's part not to bring him back. I knew it was too good to be true to keep all the same actors for the Avengers.

Artistsean

07-11-2010, 12:57 PM

Don't even include Dr. Banner.
Just have a CG Hulk for the whole movie (http://forums.superherohype.com/showthread.php?p=18528278&posted=1#).
Hulk is out in the desert or something, and is contacted (manipulated by Loki) and goes after the Avengers. He fights the Avengers (still manipulated by Loki) then turns and helps the Avengers fight Loki when he figures out he is being manipulated. Then he leaves, rejecting their offer to join, and is gone without ever turning back to his human form.
This version of the Hulk could be slightly smarter too, enough to talk is short sentences anyway.
Hulk mad! Hulk hate Horned Man (Loki)! Hulk hate being used! Hulk want to be left alone. Hulk will smash you! Get out of Hulks way!
Stuff like that.
He is now known well enough that the audience who doesn't read Hulk comics knows who he is. So there is no need to establish him and Dr. Banner. And he wont be the focus of the movie, then all they have to do is voice cast the Hulk.

Aztec

07-11-2010, 01:02 PM

It just sucks that they spent so much time introducing Banner and telling his story and now he likely will have limited screen time because they want to include needless characters like Hawkeye, Ant-Man, and Wasp.

To me the whole point of this film was the characters meeting and trying to work together. Without Norton an important piece of the puzzle is gone. They are going to really have to hire someone of high quality to replace him.

pjspider1C

07-11-2010, 01:04 PM

Who cares if he's difficult to work with? He did such a great job in TIH that its nothing, but stupid on Marvel's part not to bring him back. I knew it was too good to be true to keep all the same actors for the Avengers.

Um... maybe because Marvel doesn't want an actor who might make accusations about contract violations which could lead to legal battles? Just a thought....

Chewy

07-11-2010, 01:26 PM

http://www.cinematical.com/2010/07/10/edward-norton-wont-play-hulk-in-the-avengers-updated/

An "unknown" ..... I think by now we all know what that means ..... it's the money. Lying bastard Feige.
Hitfix reported that BEFORE they reported Feige's statement saying they would go with a name actor... you're trying to make it seem like this decision was purely budgetary when that is highly unlikely. Feige wouldn't have publicly ripped Norton if it were.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 01:39 PM

Hitfix reported that BEFORE they reported Feige's statement saying they would go with a name actor... you're trying to make it seem like this decision was purely budgetary when that is highly unlikely. Feige wouldn't have publicly ripped Norton if it were.

I dunno man ..... Feige is obviously VERY sensitive to the money issue. It's been documented numerous times how notorious he's been about low balling everyone. Norton hasn't said anything derogatory about Marvel or this process since his return started picking up steam. He clearly was excited about the idea of reprising his role. He cleared his schedule completely for God sakes. Then he gets kicked in the nutts like that? C'mon. What Feige ranted about is not adding up. I'm sorry, it's not.

Doc Ock

07-11-2010, 01:41 PM

I dunno man ..... Feige is obviously VERY sensitive to the money issue. It's been documented numerous times how notorious he's been about low balling everyone. Norton hasn't said anything derogatory about Marvel or this process since this started picking up steam. He clearly was excited about the idea of reprising his role. He cleared his schedule completely for God sakes. Then he gets kicked in the nutts like that? C'mon. What Feige ranted about is not adding up. I'm sorry, it's not.

I agree completely, there is definitely something else going on IMO.

cronosred

07-11-2010, 02:04 PM

It seems Marvel is sending a message to all of their actors, "you either do what we say for the amount of money we want to give you or we will replace you in a second and not give it a second thought whether you're a secondary actor or the star."

Chewy

07-11-2010, 02:13 PM

I dunno man ..... Feige is obviously VERY sensitive to the money issue. It's been documented numerous times how notorious he's been about low balling everyone. Norton hasn't said anything derogatory about Marvel or this process since his return started picking up steam. He clearly was excited about the idea of reprising his role. He cleared his schedule completely for God sakes. Then he gets kicked in the nutts like that? C'mon. What Feige ranted about is not adding up. I'm sorry, it's not.
Right. Because it's totally impossible that Norton isn't very collaborative.

Feige lowballs because he's on a strict budget. It's funny that people try to act like the money is no big deal, and they have all the money in the world. Even with "lowballing" the likes of Rourke and SLJ IM2 cost $200M.

Rock Sexton

07-11-2010, 02:17 PM

Right. Because it's totally impossible that Norton isn't very collaborative.

Feige lowballs because he's on a strict budget. It's funny that people try to act like the money is no big deal, and they have all the money in the world. Even with "lowballing" the likes of Rourke and SLJ IM2 cost $200M.

There is no concrete proof of this ..... all we know is that Feige came out swinging at Norton's head for absolutely no reason whatsoever. His comments are TOO disparaging and TOO defensive.

Son of Coul

07-11-2010, 02:45 PM

all we know is that Feige came out swinging at Norton's head for absolutely no reason whatsoever.
Actually I'd say that's exactly what we don't know. Something weird happened behind the scenes and somebody must've blown up at somebody else. If it were a money concern the message wouldn't have been so harsh. He pushed the "collaborative spirit" and "thriving on working in an ensemble," so it's very possible that he and RDJ didn't get along or he started pitching some ideas for more scenes with his character and they pulled a 0 tolerance policy. Feige was quick to shut down the money thing, probably concerned it would result in a "Marvel's filled with cheap bastards!" thing like it had with the IM2 cast. I mean, Norton still does indie movies.

\S/uperman

07-11-2010, 02:56 PM

You SEVERELY underestimate the general audience. Continuity is a huge issue with everyone, not just purists. People know Norton WAS the Hulk just a few years ago. He's a well received actor. It would be the equivalent of removing RDJ as Iron Man.

Not really. TIH was not a SMASH hit. IM was. That makes a big difference in accepting another actor. Hell same thing with Superman. Routh isn't a huge name, but if SR was a better movie people would piss and moan he isn't back. However SR was received about as well as TIH and a new movie with a different actor will be seen as a good thing by general public. It means, moving on to try and improve from scratch.

TheVileOne

07-11-2010, 02:56 PM

LOL stop acting like Norton is some innocent little kid.

It doesn't matter that Norton still does little indie movies. These are NOT little indie movies.

Sarg92

07-11-2010, 04:54 PM

Edward Norton's agent responds to Marvel CEO's statement

Brian Swardstrom of WME responds with the following:

"This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light. Here are the facts: two months ago, Kevin called me and said he wanted Edward to reprise the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers. He told me it would be his fantasy to bring Edward on stage with the rest of the cast at ComiCon and make it the event of the convention. When I said that Edward was definitely open to this idea, Kevin was very excited and we agreed that Edward should meet with Joss Whedon to discuss the project. Edward and Joss had a very good meeting (confirmed by Feige to me) at which Edward said he was enthusiastic at the prospect of being a part of the ensemble cast. Marvel subsequently made him a financial offer to be in the film and both sides started negotiating in good faith. This past Wednesday, after several weeks of civil, uncontentious discussions, but before we had come to terms on a deal, a representative from Marvel called to say they had decided to go in another direction with the part. This seemed to us to be a financial decision but, whatever the case, it is completely their prerogative, and we accepted their decision with no hard feelings.

We know a lot of fans have voiced their public disappointment with this result, but this is no excuse for Feige's mean spirited, accusatory comments. Counter to what Kevin implies here, Edward was looking forward to the opportunity to work with Joss and the other actors in the Avengers cast, many of whom are personal friends of his. Feige's statement is unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory. Mr. Norton talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel's fans.

Brian Swardstrom
WME"

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k

dcHulk

07-11-2010, 05:02 PM

LOL stop acting like Norton is some innocent little kid.

It doesn't matter that Norton still does little indie movies. These are NOT little indie movies.

Ya know, I understand your position, although I don't completely agree with it. I can see that you and Marvel are thinking that the Hulk as a character is bigger than any actor that can portray him. Regardless of what your opinion is on the matter, it is clear from this website and other websites that people are upset. Anyone can rationalize and guesstimate what went wrong, but Marvel is most likely the one that will pay for this sudden, unexpected and unwarranted change; the form of payment remains to be seen.

dcHulk

07-11-2010, 05:06 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k

Uh oh, a public word battle. I'm loving it!

Son of Coul

07-11-2010, 05:18 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k
Dude what the **** is going on?

ironman29758

07-11-2010, 05:19 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k
I don't get it if
A. Edward was really looking forward to this
B.Incredible Hulk was a hugh success to Marvel
C. Kevin was very excited and so was Joss Whedon to meet Ed as well as Ed being friends with many of the cast
then why would Marvel make a big mistake like this. I'm seriously thinking about not watching this movie

ironman29758

07-11-2010, 05:19 PM

double post

Son of Coul

07-11-2010, 05:19 PM

oh, also-
http://forums.superherohype.com/customavatars/avatar48247_3.gif

Stripesy Strip

07-11-2010, 05:21 PM

Even if I was not that of a fan of Norton as Banner, Marvel's CEO's Kevin Feige is starting to sound like a douche more and more as days goes by. I think he has no idea what he's doing.

Son of Coul

07-11-2010, 05:24 PM

I doubt it. This is a major ****-up but "no idea"? Hardly.

Whiskey Tango

07-11-2010, 05:28 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k

What. The. ****.

Golgo-13

07-11-2010, 05:29 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k

:csad::wow::csad::wow:

:dry:

Stripesy Strip

07-11-2010, 05:29 PM

We have made the decision to not bring Ed Norton back to portray the title role of Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert, Chris H, Chris E, Sam, Scarlett, and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks."

We prefer yes men rather than great men.

sha1243

07-11-2010, 05:29 PM

Wow i dont know im starting to doubt this now. There saying that Feige wanted Norton in the movie. So whats going on why the sudden change. Hopefully they will explain this situation a little bit more a comic con cause right now im confuse.

Gamma Goliath

07-11-2010, 05:39 PM

I think Norton is still in.

Mister Sinister

07-11-2010, 05:46 PM

Norton: I want to be in the movie
Feige: I want you to be in the movie

BAM! He's not in the movie. This is major WTF territory.

Whiskey Tango

07-11-2010, 05:52 PM

I think Norton is still in.

Ya think? They wouldn't go to these lengths to throw everybody off, would they?

Unless that's what they knew we would think...

sha1243

07-11-2010, 05:53 PM

Does anybody besides me think its a little bit weird that only hitflix is getting these message from these guys and nobody seams to be getting these reports but just copying what hitfix says. I'm going to wait for comic con to see whats really going cause if Kevin's message was right then that makes Norton look bad and if this message is correct then that makes Kevin look like an ass. It just doesn't make sense that they had him for the role but then they take him out and lie about their reasons for it, that's just messed up. Fans have the right to be mad now if that's the case.

Chewy

07-11-2010, 06:20 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k
Shame :csad:

But it does confirm what I told you all a few weeks ago about Marvel planning to bring Norton to SDCC

Whiskey Tango

07-11-2010, 06:29 PM

The whole situation is bizarre. Norton butts heads with the one suit, but that guy leaves and everythings fine. He loves Hulk and he and Leterrier got along. Yay! Then he states more than once that he wants in, he's super pumped about it,. Marvel wants him to be in it, Favs and RDJ are all excited about it, most of the internet has a woody at the mere thought. Ed and Joss get together and apparently hit it off, hey, everything's going great and them Boom! Two weeks before CC and then this crap.

I mean I'm not all super-pissed about the situation but it sure is annoying, especially after those last couple of interviews where Ed still seemed really into it.

TheVileOne

07-11-2010, 06:31 PM

Whatever you guys will believe any **** you want that's on the internet.

Even Mel Gibson's PEOPLE said Mel Gibson is INNOCENT and being set up.

This is just their side.

Despite Moriarty's position, The Incredible Hulk underperformed and did not do that well.

We don't really know what went down in discussions.

Once again, the mistake was getting someone like Norton way back when instead of getting a solid more lower profile actor that wouldn't want tons of creative control.

Doc Ock

07-11-2010, 06:36 PM

http://www.hitfix.com/articles/2010-7-11-exclusive-edward-norton-s-agent-responds-to-marvel-ceo-s-statement?m=k

I'm so confused...

Saint

07-11-2010, 06:41 PM

Whatever you guys will believe any **** you want that's on the internet.
What an empty and meaningless statement, considering that your own position comes from what's "on the internet" anyway.

Edward Norton's agent responds to Marvel CEO's statement

Brian Swardstrom of WME responds with the following:

"This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light. Here are the facts: two months ago, Kevin called me and said he wanted Edward to reprise the role of Bruce Banner in The Avengers. He told me it would be his fantasy to bring Edward on stage with the rest of the cast at ComiCon and make it the event of the convention. When I said that Edward was definitely open to this idea, Kevin was very excited and we agreed that Edward should meet with Joss Whedon to discuss the project. Edward and Joss had a very good meeting (confirmed by Feige to me) at which Edward said he was enthusiastic at the prospect of being a part of the ensemble cast. Marvel subsequently made him a financial offer to be in the film and both sides started negotiating in good faith. This past Wednesday, after several weeks of civil, uncontentious discussions, but before we had come to terms on a deal, a representative from Marvel called to say they had decided to go in another direction with the part. This seemed to us to be a financial decision but, whatever the case, it is completely their prerogative, and we accepted their decision with no hard feelings.

We know a lot of fans have voiced their public disappointment with this result, but this is no excuse for Feige's mean spirited, accusatory comments. Counter to what Kevin implies here, Edward was looking forward to the opportunity to work with Joss and the other actors in the Avengers cast, many of whom are personal friends of his. Feige's statement is unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory. Mr. Norton talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel's fans.

Brian Swardstrom
WME"
I'm inclined to believe there's more to this than either party is suggesting; I find it difficult to believe that Feige would make such unprofessional comments out of nowhere, but at the same time all indications are that Norton was on board with what Whedon had in mind for the production.

TheVileOne

07-11-2010, 06:42 PM

Eh whatever. Moriarty seems to have made the Norton camp his dog in this fight. Even though he's been hardcore for Marvel for a while.

Just saying, you can't believe everything you read online word for word. Marvel released a statement. Norton's camp released their statement. Whatever.

Mel Gibson's camp is saying Gibson is innocent and being setup. So why should this report and the public statement by Norton's agency be taken word for word?

What does Norton's agency have to say about Norton's refusal to promote The Incredible Hulk?