(Released Today!) INCREDIBLE HULK #27 SPOILER REVIEW: The Tragic Fate of Petey & Hulk's Shocking Choice
Marvel’s The Incredible Hulk #27 (2025) delivers a gripping narrative that explores Bruce Banner’s psychological warfare with the Hulk, while weaving in themes of trauma, redemption, and the blurred line between monster and hero. Written by Phillip Kennedy Johnson, with stunning artwork by Key Walker, this issue is a must-read for fans of the Jade Giant.
In this article, we’ll break down the key plot points, analyze character arcs, and explore the deeper themes of The Incredible Hulk #27.
The Plot: Hulk’s Isolation and Bruce Banner’s Struggle
The Hulk’s Rage Turns Inward
The issue opens with Bruce Banner at his lowest point. Fueled by unbridled anger, the Hulk has fully taken over their shared body and imprisoned Banner in the Hulkscape, a terrifying mental environment where he is subjected to constant torture.
Charlie Tidwell, once Hulk’s only ally, abandons him after witnessing Banner’s suffering. The Hulk is left completely alone as a result, which increases his rage and sense of loneliness.
The Falling-Down Tree: A Haunting Encounter
The story shifts to a rural setting where the Hulk encounters Petey, a young boy living in a makeshift bus-home with his troubled family. Petey’s innocent curiosity contrasts sharply with his father’s violent tendencies, foreshadowing tragedy.
Petey warns Hulk about the "Falling-Down Tree", a symbol of danger and instability. Their brief friendship highlights Hulk’s internal conflict—can he be more than a monster?
A Family’s Downfall and Hulk’s Intervention
When Travis, Petey's father, commits a horrible act and the family is forced to leave, tensions rise. Hulk, torn between his destructive nature and a desire to help, ultimately steps in—but is it too late?
The climax is brutal yet poignant, reinforcing the question: Is the Hulk a force of destruction or an unlikely hero?
Week 1: The Hulk’s Isolation and a Fateful Encounter
Hulk’s Rage Dominates: Bruce Banner is trapped in the Hulkscape, a mental prison where the Hulk torments him.
Charlie Tidwell Abandons Hulk: After witnessing Banner’s suffering, Charlie—Hulk’s only ally—rejects him, leaving him truly alone.
Petey’s Introduction: Hulk stumbles upon Petey, a young boy living in a bus with his unstable family. Petey warns Hulk about the "Falling-Down Tree", a symbol of danger.
Themes & Symbolism:
Loneliness vs. Rage: Hulk’s isolation fuels his anger, while Petey’s innocence contrasts with his father’s violence.
The Falling-Down Tree: Represents instability and looming tragedy.
Week 2: A Broken Family and Hulk’s Moral Dilemma
Petey’s Home Life Revealed: His father, Travis, is involved in criminal activity (stealing electronics, implied violence).
Hulk’s Hesitation: Petey asks if Hulk is a hero, but Hulk denies it—though he’s clearly conflicted.
Travis’ Explosive Temper: The family is forced to flee after Travis’ crimes attract police attention.
Themes & Symbolism:
Cycle of Abuse: Petey’s mother pleads with Travis, showing fear and helplessness.
Can a Monster Be a Hero? Hulk’s refusal to call himself a hero foreshadows his eventual choice.
Week 3: The Breaking Point
Travis Commits an Irreversible Act: ITravis eliminates Petey in a fit of rage, leaving his body near the Falling-Down Tree.
After learning the truth and discovering Petey's body, the Hulk goes on a furious rampage.
Hulk vs. Travis: A brutal confrontation ensues, Hulk refuses to strike down Travis despite his crimes, but stops when Petey’s mother begs for mercy.
Themes & Symbolism:
Justice vs. Vengeance: Hulk's restraint shows growth, he could have ended Travis but chooses mercy instead
The Cost of Violence: Petey’s death underscores the consequences of unchecked rage (mirroring Hulk’s own struggles).
Week 4: Aftermath and a Glimmer of Hope
Petey’s Sister Survives: Hulk ensures the baby is taken to safety by her grandmother.
Hulk’s Moment of Redemption: Petey’s mother tells Hulk, "That’s hero stuff."
The Final Goodbye: Hulk buries Petey near the woods, marking a somber but meaningful end.
Themes & Symbolism:
- Redemption Through Action: Hulk’s choice to save rather than destroy proves he’s more than a monster.
- Legacy of Trauma: Petey’s sister will grow up without him, but Hulk’s intervention prevents further tragedy.
Key Themes in The Incredible Hulk #27
1. The Duality of Monster and Hero
The Hulk's battle reflects actual nature vs. nurture arguments. Banner’s torment in the Hulkscape represents repressed trauma, while the Hulk embodies raw, unfiltered emotion.
"We’re not monsters! Except we are!" — Hulk’s self-loathing echoes throughout the issue.
2. The Impact of Abuse and Survival
Petey’s family dynamics reflect cycles of abuse and escape. His mother’s desperate plea—"Please don’t kiII me"—adds emotional weight, illustrating how trauma perpetuates violence.
3. Redemption Through Action
Despite his rage, Hulk saves Petey’s baby sister, proving that even monsters can perform heroic acts. Peter David's well-known Hulk run, which highlighted the character's complexity beyond mindless devastation, is consistent with this.
Character Analysis
Bruce Banner / The Hulk
Psychological Torment: Banner is a prisoner in his own mind, symbolizing repressed guilt and PTSD.
Hulk’s Evolution: This issue pushes Hulk toward self-awareness, setting up future redemption arcs.
Charlie Tidwell
Betrayal and Consequences: Her abandonment of Hulk raises questions about loyalty and morality.
Petey and His Family
Innocence vs. Corruption: Petey’s hopefulness contrasts with his father’s brutality, reinforcing the theme of broken cycles.
Art and Narrative Style
Visual Storytelling
Key Walker’s Penciling: The raw, kinetic art style amplifies Hulk’s brutality and Petey’s vulnerability.
Color Palette: Dark greens and muddy tones reflect the story’s grim tone, while flashes of red highlight violence.
Writing Techniques
Minimalist Dialogue: The sparse yet impactful script enhances emotional beats.
Flashback Integration: The "Remembrances of Eldest Henry Lang" backup story parallels Petey’s father, deepening the narrative.
FAQs About The Incredible Hulk #27
1. Is this a good jumping-on point for new readers?
Yes! While it continues an ongoing arc, the emotional core (Hulk’s internal struggle) is accessible.
2. How does this compare to Peter David’s Hulk run?
It honors David’s legacy by exploring Hulk’s humanity, though with a darker, more horror-infused tone.
3. Will Charlie Tidwell return?
Her departure seems final, but Marvel often revisits abandoned allies.
4. What’s next for Hulk?
The tease for Issue #28 suggests a deeper dive into monster mythology, possibly involving the "Brother Johnny" arc.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Hulk Fans
The Incredible Hulk #27 is a masterclass in psychological storytelling, blending brutal action with deep emotional stakes. Phillip Kennedy Johnson crafts a narrative that challenges the definition of heroism, while Key Walker’s art immerses readers in Hulk’s fractured world.
Rating: 9/10 – A haunting, thought-provoking entry in Hulk’s saga.
Looking Ahead
Will Hulk reclaim control from Banner?
How will Petey’s story continue?
What role will the Mother of Horrors play?
Stay tuned for The Incredible Hulk #28, coming soon from Marvel Comics!