Where is 'Hulk' in 'The Avengers'?

As Marvel moves towards the eventual "Avengers" movie which will collect its heroes into the famous comic book superteam, many have been wondering where the "Hulk" fits into the masterplan.

"Hulk" has strong links with the "Avengers" in the comics. The other team members first came together to stop him when was tricked by Norse god of mischief Loki into going on the rampage. Hulk ended up joining the group though he later left and became their adversary on several occasions.

Uncertainty over the continued role of the "Hulk" on the big screen stems in part from the previous film - which was not as huge a hit as expected, despite a new director, more action, less introspection and a closer link to the comics and TV series. No sequel has been greenlit.

So where does "The Incredible Hulk" fit into the Marvel Studios' strategy?

Edward Norton last year told MTV News that Marvel had yet to contact him to star either in The Incredible Hulk sequel or The Avengers.

"The minds of Marvel are sometimes opaque," Norton said at that time. "I won't say [they're] obtuse, but I don't have any idea what they want to do. They've got this notion of collecting the Marvel characters. Who knows where they'll go?"
But at this year's Comic-Con, Norton was far more guarded. According to Sci Fi Wire, he said: "I probably won't comment on that just because [Marvel] keeps a pretty tight rein on what they are letting out. I'll let them [address it]."

Fans believe he is keeping tight-lipped because there are plans afoot for the "Hulk" to be part of "The Avengers."

Marvel Studios production president Kevin Feige had already said that "I think it's safe to assume that there will be some members of the Hulk universe in the film (Avengers) as well."

At this stage nothing is set in stone regarding characters and casting. The Avengers script won't be finalized until the screenplays for all the solo movies are completed. Zak Penn will then have to ensure his Avengers story ties in to all the details of "Iron Man," "Thor," "Captain America" and "The Incredible Hulk" (which Penn wrote).

If there is a sequel to "The Incredible Hulk," it would come after "Avengers." That's a big unknown at this stage.
In the meantime, fans can take comfort from the fact that Banner/Hulk will almost certainly figure in the "Avengers" somewhere because Norton is still under contract and would have to appear if Marvel wants him.

And because of the ending of "Incredible Hulk," with a cameo by Tony Stark and mentioning building a team, fans can be assured some mention of "Hulk" and others from that franchise will be involved with "The Avengers."

More news to come! Catch ya' later!
Sources: The Geek Files (1,2)