The Incredible Hulk #154
Published and © by Marvel, August 1972
Title: “Hell Is a Very Small Hulk!”
Synopsis: Desperately seeking a way back to Jarella, Hulk visits Hank Pym’s lab and ends up in the clutches of Hydra.
Writer: Archie Goodwin
Penciler: Herb Trimpe
Inker: John Severin
Review: Herb Trimpe’s run on The Incredible Hulk is overdue for a critical reassessment. While the journeyman artist’s work lacked flair on many projects, his clear storytelling and strong design sense consistently shine on the Hulk. Add stylish inks from EC alumni John Severin and this series is in the mix as one of the best-looking titles of its era. As for this particular issue, Archie Goodwin continues to demonstrate a good feel for the title character, and offers in interesting mix of guest stars and villains. An above-average and highly enjoyable issue.
Grade: B
Cool factor: Ant-Man? Plague rats? Hydra? And the Chameleon? Take my dimes already!
Not-so-cool factor: The Chameleon and the Hulk just happen to be breaking into Hank Pym’s lab at the same time? Happenstance is far too often a driver of Bronze Age tales.
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is a National Diamond variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “No! Hulk will not be cheese for giant rats …” – Hulk, definitive (as usual!)
Editor’s note: This review was written March 6, 2026.
