More of this Feature "THE HULK" PREMIERE COVERAGE: • Josh Lucas ('Talbot') and Mike Erwin ('Teenage Bruce Banner') • Writer James Schamus, Animation Director Colin Brady, Producers Gale Anne Hurd and Larry Franco MORE INFORMATION ON "THE HULK": • "The Hulk" Premiere Photo Gallery • "The Hulk" Photo Gallery • "The Hulk" News, Trailer, and Websites • "The Hulk" Credits

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Australian actor Eric Bana was selected for the role of scientist Bruce Banner based on his performance in the critically acclaimed "Chopper," a disturbing movie in which he plays a killer.

"Eric played a kind of human monster in 'Chopper,' someone who was so monstrous because he was so human, too," notes "The Hulk's" director, Ang Lee. "With just a simple look, he could communicate a kind of superhuman fury and intelligence. I thought it would be marvelous to see him as Bruce Banner, having to suppress that energy until he couldn't take it anymore."

Bruce Banner's signature line from the film - "You wouldn't like me when I'm angry" - is a line that seems totally incongruous with the actor who plays the character. Tired from a world-wind publicity tour and busy shooting his next movie, "Troy," in Malta, Bana was still able to turn on the charm while working the 'green' carpet for "The Hulk's" World Premiere.

ERIC BANA ('Bruce Banner')

What's the latest news on the sequel?
You know what? I'm honored to say that's in the hands of the fans. I haven't even spoken about it or thought about it as yet. I would never be so presumptuous. We'll see what people think.

There must be a lot of pressure on you right now.
It's amazing isn't it? We just got off the airplane. We flew in at about 4:00 this morning and we just got our second burst of energy. We're running on pure adrenaline.

Are you happy with the movie?
We're thrilled. I just think it's beautiful. Ang Lee did an amazing job. I'm completely honored and stoked to be a part of it.

What is it about comic book movies? They seem to be so popular right now.
I think [they] just attract the best people. We've got a great cast in this one. “X-Men 2” is the same, and “Spider-Man” was the same. We've got really fantastic people.

What was the most difficult part of filming “The Hulk?”
I think just the amount of takes we had to do. Ang likes to get a lot of coverage, which gets physically draining. It's a challenge but it's pretty amazing.

Sam Elliott at the World Premiere of "The Hulk"
Photo ©Rebecca Murray. All Rights Reserved.