Despite the fact that Thor: Ragnarok had the Odinson's name right in the title, it's starting to sound like there will be a lot more Hulk involved in the movie's story than previously expected. With elements of the Planet Hulk story already being utilized in Taika Waititi's entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it's starting to look more like the story will be cannibalized for the sake of the third Thor film, as opposed to getting its own film. However, a new connection just might signal otherwise, as Miek, a character from said Hulk story, is apparently a part of Thor: Ragnarok's cast.
The Hollywood Reporter picked up on the low-key announcement during today's Facebook Live video from the official page for Thor: Ragnarok, as Waititi, Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson celebrated the wrapping of principal photography with a last day video shoot. In between jokes about a "direct-to-VHS" release and the cast being fired after today, Miek was name dropped by Waititi himself as being part of the dramatis personae of his motion picture, which is now in the can. A better look at this creature can be found in the comic panel below.
As the photo explains, Miek becomes entangled with Hulk during his Planet Hulk/World War Hulk storyline, as he tries to manipulate the Hulk into rampaging across the galaxy, as well as destroying Earth. Of course, Miek starts out as an ally to The Hulk, as the two are forced to fight in the gladitorial arena of Sakaar's Red King. With Thor: Ragnarok seemingly replacing the Red King with Jeff Goldblum's Grandmaster as the figure amused by gladiator fights, it looks like Planet Hulk's odds of becoming its own film aren't particularly rosy. Though, with some creative thinking, there's a chance some good could come out of this.
With Thor: Ragnarok setting up both Hulk and Miek, their acquaintance can always be revisited in a future solo film for The Hulk's storyline. Considering the Illuminati, the group of Marvel heroes that form a brain trust to protect the Marvel universe, have been bandied about as playing a part in the MCU down the line, and their own pivotal role in the Planet Hulk/World War Hulk storyline being well known, Bruce Banner just might have some time to shine as a more lethal version of himself.
For now though, we'll just enjoy seeing The Hulk kicking some ass in the arena when Thor: Ragnarok rains down from the heavens and into our theaters on November 3, 2017.
