Making amends for the heretofore piecemeal home video release of this 1970s cult favorite, this four-disc boxed set contains the first two feature-length pilot shows (also available separately) that established the Hulk's mythology, as well as all 10 first season episodes. The Incredible Hulk, a world apart from the camp pleasures of Batman, is more a kindred spirit to The Fugitive, as it follows David Banner (Bill Bixby), the gamma ray-blasted doctor who embarks on a quest to find a cure that would control the "startling metamorphosis" that transforms him into the pumped-up, mighty green smashing machine (played by Lou Ferrigno) whenever he becomes enraged. Banner, falsely accused of murder, is presumed dead, but is continually chased by Jack McGee (Jack Colvin), a relentless investigative reporter determined to prove the creature's existence. In each episode, Banner, traveling incognito, is compelled to come to the aid of a stranger being threatened, framed, or otherwise menaced. Of course, becoming the Hulk does have its advantages, such as when you're hog-tied in a car about to be demolished ("Of Guilt, Models and Murder") or in the process of being buried alive ("The Hulk Breaks Las Vegas"). But it's usually just inconvenient, as when Banner struggles to control the beast within as he tries to land an airplane whose crew has been drugged in "747," an excellent episode also notable for reuniting Bixby with his The Courtship of Eddie's Father costar Brandon Cruz. While the music and special effects are somewhat on the cheesy side, Banner's transformations make for iconic television. DVD extras include an audio commentary and a bonus episode from the second season. Recommended. (D. Liebenson)
The Incredible Hulk: The Complete First Season
Universal, 4 discs, 692 min., not rated, DVD: $39.98 October 2, 2006