Finally saw the movie and I loved it. Sure, it's still not on the same level as Batman Begins or Spider-Man I or II, but in retrospect, it was as good as Iron Man.
The decision to scrap the first movie's storyline and return to the drawing board was excellent. The opening sequence, Lou Ferrigano's (sp?) cameo, Banner's travels from Brazil to the U.S.--even the scene from The Courtship of Eddie's Father on Banner's television--all paid homage to the television series and Bill Bixby. Bravo.
Edward Norton got Banner right. Eric Bana should've taken notes. Liv Tyler got the emotional attachment to Banner right also. You could feel the love she had for him--something Jennifer Connelly didn't or wouldn't convey in the first movie. William Hurt was good, but I still prefer Sam Ellioitt's protrayal of General Ross over his--even though Hurt played in the better movie.
The fight scenes were solid. If you've never read the book, you're not aware of The Abomination's power levels, so that's understandable. The introductions of The Leader a.k.a. Dr. Samuel Sterns (the pulsating head was a dead giveaway) and Dr. Sansom were smooth touches. I can't wait to see what they (hopefully) plan for Dr. Sansom's character in the next movie.
The best thing about the first movie for me was the CGI Hulk. This one was even better. Allowing him to converse was a plus. They didn't power down his strength, thank goodness. Even though I had already seen his super thunderclap a few times in the trailers, it was great to see him employ it during the movie.
:starspin
