Chris Hemsworth as Thor as seen in 'Thor: The Dark World,' the most recent film in the 'Thor' series (Photo : YouTube/ Marvel Entertainment)
"Thor: Ragnarok" will primarily focus on the battle between Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and the new villain Hela (Cate Blanchett) but it will also feature Bruce Banner aka the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo). It has now been confirmed that Hulk may have a larger part to play as the film will feature the planet Sakaar.
Sakaar is prominently featured in the "Planet Hulk" comic books. In the original source material, Hulk had competed in the planet's fighting pits and eventually became known as a renowned gladiator. The studios previously showcased the Hulk's gladiator armor and it is now confirmed that the planet itself will be shown.
"Sakaar was just an insane, far-off, futuristic place which was the biggest shift for the film and these characters. I was really excited when Kevin Feige and the rest of Marvel jumped on board with the idea to use Jack Kirby as a big influence in the design of the film. What's really hard is staying authentic," director Taika Waititi told Total Film magazine as cited by Games Radar.
In the original comic books, Hulk was sent off to the planet after he was deemed too dangerous for Earth. The events of "Planet Hulk" also took place after the "Civil War" events and the films are following suit. Hulk noticeably went into hiding following the events of "Avengers: Age of Ultron."
"Thor: Ragnarok" is expected to alter the story of the comic books similar to how the studios altered the "Winter Soldier" and "Civil War" stories for the live-action films, /Film reported. It is also stated that future films may not explore the "World War Hulk" story that followed the "Planet Hulk" plotline.
Given that the movie will focus on Thor and his adventures, the planet Sakaar and Hulk's adventures on it might not be featured for too long. It is widely speculated that Hulk will leave the planet and aid Thor in his fight against Hela although Marvel has yet to confirm if this is true.
"Thor: Ragnarok" is set to release in theatres on Nov. 3, 2017.
