What is the plot?

In the pilot episode of The Incredible Hulk, we are introduced to Dr. David Banner, a brilliant scientist who is conducting research on the effects of gamma radiation. The story begins with a flashback to a tragic accident in which Banner's experiment goes awry, resulting in the death of his wife, which deeply traumatizes him. This event sets the stage for his internal struggle and the emotional turmoil that drives his character throughout the series.

After the accident, Banner is haunted by guilt and shame, leading him to isolate himself from others. He becomes obsessed with finding a cure for his condition, which he believes is linked to the gamma radiation exposure. As he travels across the country, he adopts a nomadic lifestyle, constantly on the run from the authorities who are searching for him due to his transformation into the Hulk, a monstrous alter ego that emerges when he experiences intense anger or stress.

In a small town, Banner takes on a new identity and finds work as a mechanic. He befriends a local woman named Elaina Marks, who is kind and supportive. Their relationship begins to blossom, providing Banner with a sense of normalcy and hope. However, this peace is short-lived as a group of criminals, led by a ruthless gang leader, begins to terrorize the town. They threaten Elaina and her father, who is the local sheriff, putting Banner in a difficult position.

As the gang's intimidation escalates, Banner struggles with his emotions. He wants to protect Elaina but fears that his transformation into the Hulk will put her in greater danger. In a pivotal moment, he witnesses the gang attacking Elaina's father, which triggers his anger. The transformation into the Hulk is violent and explosive; he bursts forth from his human form, towering and green, filled with raw power and rage.

The Hulk confronts the gang members, who are initially taken aback by his size and strength. A chaotic fight ensues, with the Hulk effortlessly overpowering the criminals. He throws them around, demolishes their vehicles, and instills fear in their hearts. The scene is filled with intense physicality as the Hulk's rage is palpable, and the destruction he causes is both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

After the confrontation, the Hulk retreats into the wilderness, leaving the town in a state of shock. Banner, now back in his human form, is left to grapple with the consequences of his actions. He realizes that while he was able to protect Elaina and her father, he cannot stay in one place for too long without risking the safety of those he cares about. This realization deepens his internal conflict, as he longs for connection but knows that his condition makes it impossible.

In the final scenes, Banner bids farewell to Elaina, who expresses her concern for him. He reassures her that he will be okay, but the sadness in his eyes reveals his true feelings of loneliness and despair. As he walks away, the camera captures his solitary figure against the backdrop of the setting sun, symbolizing his ongoing struggle and the burden he carries. The episode concludes with Banner continuing his journey, searching for a cure while evading the authorities and the Hulk within him.

What is the ending?

In the ending of "The Incredible Hulk" TV series, Dr. David Banner, having been pursued by authorities and struggling with his dual identity, ultimately finds a moment of peace. He walks away from the chaos of his life, accepting his fate as a wanderer, while the Hulk remains a part of him, a constant reminder of his struggles.


As the final episode unfolds, we find Dr. David Banner, portrayed by Bill Bixby, in a state of deep contemplation. The sun sets on a quiet town, casting long shadows that mirror the turmoil within him. He has been on the run, a fugitive from both the law and his own monstrous alter ego, the Hulk. The weight of his dual existence presses heavily on his shoulders, and he is weary from the constant battle between his intellect and the primal rage that the Hulk embodies.

Scene 1: The Quiet Town David arrives in a small, unassuming town, seeking refuge and a moment of normalcy. He walks through the streets, observing the simple lives of the townsfolk. There is a sense of longing in his eyes as he watches families interact, children playing, and couples sharing laughter. This moment of peace is fleeting, as he knows that his presence could bring danger to those around him.

Scene 2: The Encounter As David tries to blend in, he encounters a local mechanic named Jack McGee, played by Jack Colvin, who has been tirelessly pursuing the Hulk. McGee is driven by a desire to expose the truth behind the creature that has eluded him for so long. Their paths cross in a tense moment, where McGee's determination clashes with David's desperate need for anonymity. David feels a surge of fear and anger, knowing that McGee represents the relentless pursuit of his darker self.

Scene 3: The Transformation In a moment of high tension, David's emotional state reaches a breaking point. He is cornered by McGee and the local authorities, and the stress triggers the transformation into the Hulk. The scene is chaotic, with the Hulk rampaging through the town, a force of nature that cannot be contained. Buildings shake, and people flee in terror as the green giant wreaks havoc, embodying the very fear that David has tried to escape.

Scene 4: The Aftermath Once the Hulk's rage subsides, David is left to pick up the pieces. He finds himself in a secluded area, grappling with the destruction left in his wake. The internal conflict is palpable; he is both the creator and the destroyer. The emotional turmoil is evident on his face as he realizes that he cannot escape the consequences of his actions. The townspeople, once welcoming, now view him with suspicion and fear.

Scene 5: The Farewell In the final moments, David makes a poignant decision. He understands that he cannot stay in one place for too long, as the Hulk will always be a part of him. He bids farewell to the town, walking away into the sunset, a solitary figure against the vast landscape. The camera lingers on his face, capturing the sadness and acceptance of his fate. He is a man forever on the run, haunted by his own creation.

Scene 6: The Final Reflection As David walks away, the screen fades to black, leaving viewers with a sense of unresolved tension. The fate of David Banner is one of perpetual wandering, a man burdened by his dual identity. The Hulk remains a part of him, a reminder of the struggle between man and monster. The series concludes with the haunting realization that David may never find peace, but he continues to search for it, embodying the eternal conflict within himself.

In this ending, the characters are left with their fates intertwined with the themes of isolation, acceptance, and the struggle against one's own nature. David Banner's journey is one of resilience, even in the face of overwhelming odds, while Jack McGee's relentless pursuit serves as a reminder of the consequences of obsession. The story closes on a note of ambiguity, leaving the audience to ponder the complexities of identity and the human condition.

Is there a post-credit scene?

The 1977 television series "The Incredible Hulk" does not feature post-credit scenes. The show typically concludes each episode with a dramatic moment, often leaving the audience with a sense of unresolved tension regarding David Banner's struggle with his dual identity as the Hulk. The final scenes usually depict Banner walking away, often in solitude, reflecting his internal conflict and the burden of his transformation. This format emphasizes the themes of isolation and the search for peace, rather than providing a traditional post-credit scene. Each episode ends on a poignant note, reinforcing the emotional weight of Banner's journey.

What causes David Banner to transform into the Hulk?

David Banner transforms into the Hulk due to a gamma radiation accident that occurs while he is conducting experiments to find a way to increase human strength. The exposure to gamma rays alters his genetic makeup, leading to the uncontrollable transformation into the Hulk whenever he experiences extreme anger or stress.

Who is the main antagonist in the pilot episode of The Incredible Hulk?

In the pilot episode titled 'The Incredible Hulk,' the main antagonist is a character named Dr. Elaina Marks, who is a scientist working on a project involving gamma radiation. However, the true conflict arises from David Banner's struggle against his own inner demons and the Hulk persona, which is often seen as a threat by those around him.

What is the relationship between David Banner and his love interest, Betty Ross?

David Banner has a complex and deeply emotional relationship with Betty Ross, who is portrayed as a compassionate and understanding figure in his life. Their relationship is marked by longing and tragedy, as David's transformations into the Hulk create a barrier between them, leading to moments of both connection and heartache.

How does David Banner cope with his transformations into the Hulk throughout the series?

Throughout the series, David Banner copes with his transformations into the Hulk by constantly searching for a cure while also trying to control his emotions. He often isolates himself to protect others from the Hulk's destructive power, leading to a life of loneliness and a quest for redemption as he seeks to understand and manage the beast within.

What role does the character Jack McGee play in the series?

Jack McGee is a persistent journalist who becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind the Hulk. He sees the Hulk as a monster and is determined to expose David Banner, whom he believes is responsible for the chaos caused by the Hulk. McGee's relentless pursuit adds tension to the narrative, as he often comes close to discovering Banner's true identity.

Is this family friendly?

The Incredible Hulk, produced in 1977, is generally considered family-friendly, but it does contain some scenes and themes that may be potentially objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are a few aspects to consider:

  1. Violence and Aggression: The transformation of Dr. David Banner into the Hulk often involves intense scenes of destruction and physical confrontations. The Hulk's immense strength leads to property damage and fights that can be quite intense.

  2. Emotional Turmoil: The character of David Banner experiences significant emotional distress, including feelings of isolation, fear, and sadness due to his condition. His struggle with his identity and the consequences of his transformations can be heavy themes.

  3. Themes of Pursuit and Danger: David Banner is often pursued by authorities or those who misunderstand him, leading to tense situations that may evoke feelings of anxiety or fear.

  4. Tragic Backstories: Some episodes explore darker themes, including loss, betrayal, and the impact of trauma, which may be upsetting for younger viewers.

  5. Mature Situations: While not graphic, some episodes touch on adult themes such as prejudice, mental health issues, and the consequences of violence, which may require parental guidance for younger audiences.

Overall, while The Incredible Hulk is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, these elements may warrant consideration for children or sensitive viewers.