Must-read graphic novels are futuristic classics that shouldn’t be missed. Of course, not every must-see is perfect. That’s why we’ve rated them 1-5 on the patented “crunchy goodness” scale.
Title: Hulk: Future Imperfect
Date: 1993
Vitals: The Hulk journeys to a ruined future where his own future self has become a vicious tyrant. The future Hulk, known by the somewhat prissy name of The Maestro, represents a haunting vision of what Bruce Banner could become.
Famous names: Peter David, George Perez
Crunchy goodness: 5
Continuity porn: The future Rick James lives in a giant “trophy room” that includes Captain America’s shield, Wolverine’s metal skeleton, the Beast’s pelt, Magneto’s helmet, and Thor’s hammer.
Sights you’ll never unsee: After the Maestro breaks the Hulk’s neck and he’s paralyzed, a voluptuous concubine comes to pleasure the Hulk… whether he wants it or not.
Life lesson: Meeting your evil future self may be cheaper than therapy, but the couch is way less comfy.
Sequels: The Maestro makes a brief appearance in the underwhelming Hulk storyline “Ghosts of the Future.” Much better is David’s Hulk prose novel, What Savage Beast, which features the Maestro recruiting a army of Hulks from alternate timelines.
