Edward Norton, Liv Tyler and William Hurt reload The Incredible Hulk film series in front of the lens of action film director Louis Leterrier. This film represents a slice of sequel, retaining some continuity from the first Ang Lee-directed 2003 Hulk film, but mainly reboots the film series. Filmmakers quickly assimilate audiences into this installment by shortening the Hulk’s origin into a quick montage during the opening credits.

Norton, starring as Bruce Banner, and Tyler, as Betty Ross, have both adjusted over time. He globetrots the world in search of a cure while she teaches at Culver University. Filmmakers definitely boost the romantic elements between the two scientists. Banner’s inner torment and bad memories remain as his dual personality forces some significant adjustments in his life. Audiences see text updates on how many days he manages his anger “without incident.”

These adjustments add some surprising character development into the plot while filmmakers also build on the Hulk’s character with a touching scene in a cave and expanding fighting abilities.

Banner‘s actions and activities revolve around finding a cure for that green monster twinkling in his eyes. “I don’t want control over it, I want to get rid of it,” he says. Tim Blake Nelson is perfectly cast as an eccentric researcher specializing in gamma technology. Besides Betty, he’s the only other character who gives Banner some hope during his quest.

Control is key as Banner never exploits his power while staying off the radar from General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, played by William Hurt. Ultimately, when Banner gets backed into a corner, literally, the Hulk comes roaring back in all his loud, destructive glory. Enter Betty Ross and her father, General Ross, who looks like the mustached Paul Newman of several years back. In discussions with other characters, General Ross says Betty is “no longer a factor” while Betty says her father is “out of the picture.”

Tyler gives a strong, intelligent performance as she holds her own with the talented acting of Norton and Hurt. Banner and his unique situation bring them together again as they tackle some serious emotional issues out in the field throughout the fugitive/chase scenes. “I can’t help either of them,” says General Ross as he involves other law enforcement groups in the chase to capture Banner to harness his unique battle abilities.

Audiences may not realize it, but filmmakers also could be laying some groundwork for Marvel Studios’ future projects through characters like Stanley, played by Paul Soles, and Dr. Samson, played by Ty Burrell. Dr. Samson certainly understands the situation between Ross and his daughter through his time with her at the university. “Now I know why she [Betty] doesn’t talk about you,” he says to General Ross. “Where does she get these guys?” Ross says to himself as he walks away.