In the world of filmmaking, maintaining a harmonious and collaborative atmosphere on set is often crucial to the success of a project. However, not every production sails smoothly through the creative process. Such was the case with the 2008 blockbuster The Incredible Hulk. Now, nearly 15 years since the film came out, the director of the film is coming clean about the issues faced on set.

Just like with any blockbuster film starring a well-known actor, this one had its issues too. The director recently revealed that behind the scenes, tensions ran high, and creative differences were not uncommon between the director and the lead actor, Edward Norton.

The Incredible Hulk director reveals how the team handled lock steps

In a recent interview with Josh Horowitz, the director of The Incredible Hulk, Louis Leterrier opened up about what it was like working with Edward Norton. He revealed that he had butted heads with the actor on more than one occasion. Not just them, but the entire team had varying opinions about what should make it into the film. The filmmaker also revealed that “it just got tense at the end.”

Although they were confused about the “tone and level of humor” in the film, it was Edward Norton who “defended the seriousness of the movie.” While it all eventually worked itself out, Leterrier claimed that it was a lot to take in back then. However, that was not how he had felt when he found out that Norton was on board to work on his project.

With an actor like Edward Norton, it is no surprise that the director gave in to the whims of the superstar. After all, he was thrilled when he found out that the 54-year-old wanted to be a part of the film.

Louis Leterrier on Edward Norton taking up The Incredible Hulk

In the same interview, Louis Leterrier opened up about how he found out that Edward Norton wanted to play the Hulk. He revealed that Mark Ruffalo was his first choice, but Marvel wanted to go another route. After a brief “coffee meeting” in New York with the Fight Club star to pitch the story, the director said that “he hated it,” and even declined the part politely.

After taking no for an answer and flying back to Los Angeles, the team got a different answer. Leterrier recalled that when the flight landed, his phone lit up with “15 messages.” They were all pertaining to Edward Norton changing his mind and wanting to take up the role. Eventually, with an agreement to have the freedom to re-work the script, Norton gave in and gave fans a critically acclaimed movie that encapsulated the essence of the comics really well.

What do you think about Louis Leterrier going head-to-head with Edward Norton? Let us know in the comments below.