SUMMARY
Kerry Callen’s uproarious fanart parody of the classic Hulk vs. Wolverine confrontation, featuring a toaster, injects a delightful layer of absurdity and humor into a legendary comic book scene.
The original Hulk vs. Wolverine illustration is celebrated for its intense energy, making it an ideal target for parodies and nods, such as Callen’s imaginative rendition.
Callen, a master of comic book parodies, offers a distinctive comedic twist on this iconic image, delivering a brand of humor that fans won’t encounter elsewhere.
Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Deadpool & Wolverine! The latest blockbuster, Deadpool & Wolverine, is packed with comedic moments, even intertwining humor into its most intense scenes, particularly the Hulk vs. Wolverine encounter. As Deadpool navigates various multiverses in search of the perfect Wolverine partner, he stumbles upon a Logan embroiled in combat with the Hulk, rendering the scene hilariously entertaining. Now, a piece of fanart amplifies this humor to new heights.
In an Instagram post by MAD contributor, freelance illustrator, and art director Kerry Callen (handle: kerrycallen), the artist unveiled a piece that parodies a pivotal moment in the Marvel Comics history shared by Wolverine and Hulk. Originally immortalized on the cover of The Incredible Hulk #340, this moment depicts the Hulk’s reflection in Wolverine’s claws, poised for battle. Callen’s fanart, however, takes a creative detour.
Instead of the Hulk appearing in Wolverine’s claw reflection, he is seen in the gleaming surface of a toaster. Both Wolverine and Hulk are still in mid-battle cry, unfazed by the presence of a toaster as their weapon of choice. The sheer absurdity of this scenario is laugh-out-loud funny, and the artwork itself is superb, making it a visual delight. Remarkably, this artwork surpasses the humor found in Deadpool & Wolverine, even without Deadpool’s antics!
Why THIS Hulk vs. Wolverine Moment Warrants Numerous Parodies/References
The Incredible Hulk #340 by Peter David and Todd MacFarlane
In a brief span, The Incredible Hulk #340 has inspired two parodies/references: Deadpool & Wolverine and Kerry Callen’s artwork. This might prompt fans to wonder: why? Why is this particular Hulk vs. Wolverine comic so iconic? It’s neither their first encounter nor the most pivotal to their narratives. So, what has earned it such acclaim, especially recently?
While there’s no single definitive reason, one stands out: the image looks incredibly badass. Wolverine, claws drawn, letting out a battle cry, with the Hulk charging and his reflection visible in Logan’s adamantium blades—what’s not to love? It perfectly encapsulates the essence of a ‘Hulk vs. Wolverine’ clash like no other artwork, and the numerous parodies and references it spawns underscore its enduring appeal.
‘Hulk vs. Wolverine (& Toaster)’ Isn’t Kerry Callen’s First Comic Book Parody
As noted earlier, Kerry Callen is a seasoned artist with a portfolio rich in MAD Magazine contributions. MAD is renowned for satirizing virtually everything, including comic books, and Callen has crafted many such parodies. Their Instagram showcases a plethora of examples, from MAD collaborations to personal pieces and commissions. Simply put, fans won’t find a more adept artist to craft a humorous parody of such an iconic image.
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While Deadpool & Wolverine may have finally brought the cherished Hulk vs. Wolverine depiction to the silver screen, Kerry Callen elevated the parody with an absurdist humor that their original artwork embodies, offering fans a comedic experience that surpasses what the MCU delivers.
Source: Kerry Callen/Instagram