The Incredible Hulk: Original Motion Picture Score cover

The Incredible Hulk: Original Motion Picture Score

Craig Armstrong · 2008

110 min · 45 tracks

A sweeping orchestral score that blends tension and emotion, embodying the duality of the Hulk's destructive power and human vulnerability.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hulk Theme — This track encapsulates the essence of the Hulk’s character, combining powerful orchestration with a haunting melody that reflects his internal struggle. Its recurring motif throughout the film ties together key emotional moments.
  • →
    Harlem Brawl — This high-energy piece underscores one of the film’s pivotal action sequences, blending tension and urgency that mirrors the chaos of the encounter. Its dynamic arrangement showcases Armstrong's skill in scoring intense cinematic moments.
  • →
    Bruce and Betty — Focusing on the relationship between Bruce Banner and Betty Ross, this track highlights the emotional stakes of their connection amidst turmoil. The delicate instrumentation contrasts with the film's action elements, emphasizing vulnerability.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
56 /100
Foothills
Higher than 46% of albums we've rated

The score effectively blends orchestral elements to enhance the film's themes but lacks standout moments for broader recognition.

What we noticed

  • The album includes both fast-paced cues for action scenes and slower, more emotional pieces that reflect the character's internal struggle.
  • Many tracks are structured around crescendos, leading to climactic moments that mirror the film's narrative arcs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic tension with emotional depth
  • immersive orchestral soundscapes
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • evocative themes for cinematic moments
  • sweeping crescendos and releases

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking upbeat, catchy tunes
  • prefer lyrics over instrumental focus

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2008, Craig Armstrong had established himself as a prominent composer after notable works like 'Moulin Rouge!' and 'The Great Gatsby'. The score for 'The Incredible Hulk' marked his entry into superhero film music, showcasing his ability to blend classical elements with contemporary soundscapes. This project also followed his collaboration on other film scores, further solidifying his reputation in Hollywood.
Stylistic neighbors
Max Richter· Ólafur Arnalds· Nils Frahm

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 The Arctic 2:46
  • 2 Main Title 2:38
  • 3 Rocinha Favela 3:11
  • 4 A Drop of Blood 1:35
  • 5 The Flower 2:49
  • 6 Ross’ Team 1:33
  • 7 Mr. Blue 1:03
  • 8 Favela Escape 3:35
  • 9 It Was Banner 1:31
  • 10 That Is the Target 5:33
  • 11 Bruce Goes Home 1:24
  • 12 Ross and Blonsky 3:15
  • 13 Return to Culver University 2:38
  • 14 The Lab 1:16
  • 15 Reunion 3:37
  • 16 The Data / The Vial 1:20
  • 17 They’re Here 3:06
  • 18 Give Him Everything You’ve Got 6:08
  • 19 Bruce Can’t Stay 1:53
  • 20 First Injection 1:03
  • 21 Is It Safe? 1:06
  • 22 Hulk Theme 3:59

Disc 2

  • 1 Saved From the Flames 0:53
  • 2 Grotto 2:53
  • 3 Arrival at the Motel 1:47
  • 4 I Can’t 2:15
  • 5 Abomination Alley 3:56
  • 6 Bruce Found 2:51
  • 7 Bruce Looks for the Data 1:05
  • 8 NYC Cab Ride 1:17
  • 9 The Mirror 1:17
  • 10 Sterns’ Lab 4:16
  • 11 Bruce Darted 3:00
  • 12 I Want It, I Need It 1:35
  • 13 Blonsky Transforms 1:15
  • 14 Bruce Must Do It 2:11
  • 15 Harlem Brawl 3:50
  • 16 Are They Dead? 2:40
  • 17 Hulk Smash 2:24
  • 18 Hulk and Betty 1:49
  • 19 A Tear 1:00
  • 20 Who’s We? 0:55
  • 21 The Necklace 1:44
  • 22 Bruce and Betty 5:06
  • 23 Hulk Theme (end credits) 3:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata