Two Donny Cates-written characters will cross over next year in Hulk vs. Thor: Banner of War.
The story, which kicks off with an “alpha” issue from Marvel before erupting into the Hulk and Thor monthly titles, will find the two Avengers brought together by “mysterious circumstances.” And then the fighting starts.
“Well, I was a little surprised that Marvel approached me to write this, if I’m being honest. I’m mostly known for writing very small, very quiet, intimate comics, so I had to—ha!! Sorry. Couldn’t keep that up. Yeah, this is gonna be bonkers as hell, guys,” Cates told Marvel.com. “We’re going to break EVERYTHING! Happy birthday, Hulk and Thor! Hope you enjoy MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF VIOLENCE!”
Here’s the story’s description from Marvel: In the aftermath of the opening arc of HULK and the “God of Hammers” arc currently unfolding in THOR, both Bruce Banner and Thor Odinson have both undergone massive changes, but one thing remains constant — their heated rivalry! When mysterious circumstances bring them into conflict once more, will the God of Thunder be able to triumph against a Bruce Banner who can now control his rage?
Following the alpha issue, which arrives in April, the story will run through the May and June issues of Thor (25-26) and Hulk (7-8). Each issue of the crossover will be written by Cates and drawn by Martin Coccolo, with covers by Gary Frank.
“Where do I even start? I get to celebrate Hulk and Thor’s 60th anniversaries, which is already amazing and a dream come true, but I get to do it with an insane script by the great Donny Cates AND the support of an incredible group of editors? That’s just ridiculous!” Coccolo said. “I’m absolutely honored by this opportunity and I’ve been giving it my 100%. Hopefully readers will agree. I can only say to all the fans out there to strap yourselves ’cause this is going to be a wild ride!”
Coccolo also drew a variant cover for the alpha issue:
And here’s a look at some of his interior artwork:
Hulk vs. Thor: Banner of War Alpha arrives April 27.