The Infernal Hulk #4 is not for the faint of heart. Phillip Kennedy Johnson’s series has always worn its horror influences on its sleeve, but this issue dials them up. It’s scary, brutal, and sets up a perilous journey for the Jade Giant.
What is the Hulkscape in Marvel Comics?
We finally see what’s happened to The Incredible Hulk. His consciousness has been banished to the Hulkscape, the same mental prison he previously trapped Bruce Banner in, but with some major changes. Eldest’s corruption permeates the land, transforming it into pure nightmare fuel. Artist Nic Klein renders the environment like a sick, twisted version of Wonderland. A nauseating splash on page four shows bloodshot eyeballs protruding from the ground, a broken skull towering into the sky, and a grotesque rib cage forming a mountain range. Colorist Matthew Wilson blankets the horizon with hellish reds and pale yellows that give the scene a malicious tint.
Joe Fixit and Worldbreaker Hulk: The Variants Return
Hulk soon encounters variants of himself, with the Savage Hulk, Joe Fixit, and Worldbreaker Hulk making an appearance. They soon learn that all beings consumed by Eldest reside in the Hulkscape, as the Mother of Horrors bursts out of the ground. The Hulks may not be the best of friends, but they recognize a common enemy and join forces to take on this new threat. An intense battle follows, and PKJ teases the Hulk may not be the strongest there is anymore.
Who is the Mother of Horrors?
The Mother of Horrors’ appearance matches her name. Klein uses a low-angle view to make her massive, as her upper body looms over the battle on page twenty-one. The normally gigantic Hulks look like ants beside her. Razor-sharp horns burst from her head, and muscles bulge against pallid grey skin. Cory Petit’s lettering drives home her menace, using ominous purple text set against a black background for her speech bubbles. She’s a more than worthy adversary for the Jade Giant.
Can the Hulk Survive Without Bruce Banner?
We see a Hulk completely separated from Banner, and he looks unprepared. It’s rare to read a story where he’s the one taking the beating, but he spends much of this issue on the receiving end. Hulk was quick to isolate himself from his alter ego, yet it appears they need each other more than they think. Their path towards reuniting is shaping up to be their greatest battle yet.
The only problem with this book is the lack of story development. We learn that the Incredible Hulk still exists, but there’s not much here besides that. Klein’s artwork elevates the issue, but those looking for a psychological Hulk story will be let down.
The Verdict: Is The Infernal Hulk #4 Worth Reading?
Can the Incredible Hulk survive the horror of the Hulkscape? PKJ leaves room for doubt, as Klein’s art brings his nightmares to life. Wilson makes the whole thing look demonic, while Petit’s letters reinforce the carnage. The Mother of Horrors promises to be one of the Hulk’s toughest foes yet. If this issue is any sign, then she could end up being his last.
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‘The Infernal Hulk’ #4 | The Mother of Horrors, Hulk’s Newest Villain Debuts
Can the Incredible Hulk survive the horror of the Hulkscape? PKJ leaves room for doubt, as Klein’s art brings his nightmares to life. Wilson makes the whole thing look demonic, while Petit’s letters reinforce the carnage. The Mother of Horrors promises to be one of the Hulk’s toughest foes yet. If this issue is any sign, then she could end up being his last.
