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The Incredible Hulk

(Rated TV-PG, Drama, Starring Bill Bixby, Lou Ferrigno, Jack Colvin, Where to watch: SciFi, Syndicated, DVD)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    70s comic-based classic might scare some kids.

updated 07.04.08

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    While he isn't gentle, the Hulk does help people who don't have the physical strength to help themselves. Most of the people who are hurt by the Hulk are the "bad guys." While the core cast is Caucasian, African-American supporting/guest characters are sometimes visible.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    The Hulk is an angry giant who punches walls, destroys rooms, and throws objects and people (usually the bad guys). He doesn't kill, but people are sometimes knocked unconscious and suffer injuries as a result of his actions. Guns are visible. The Hulk is often shot at, sometimes causing minor bloodshed.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Occasional kissing and hugging. Occasional comments that might be considered sexist by today's standards.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    The Hulk is a Marvel comics character
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Rare consumption of alcohol and tobacco products.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Incredible Hulk

Parents need to know that this classic, comic book-based '70s series is about a man who transforms into the giant green Hulk when he gets angry. While kids may be drawn to the show by the sci-fi/comic angle, it's important to note that the Hulk consistently exhibits angry, violent behavior that may be iffy for younger viewers (and might scare some of them, too). Parents also need to know that some of the characters' comments and actions (including sexist remarks), though consistent with the social norms of the '70s, will seem outdated and old-fashioned now.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how comic book characters get transformed for television and movies. Which characters are different on the page and on screen? Which ones have stayed mostly the same? Does the Hulk scare you? Why or why not? Families can also discuss the different ways that people cope with anger. Since regular people can't turn into superhuman giants, what can they do to manage intense feelings and make themselves feel stronger?
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