Joaquin Phoenix to be new Hulk?

News broke over the weekend that Edward Norton is not going to continue work as The Incredible Hulk. And already, a mere three days later, Marvel has reportedly offered the role of Bruce Banner to Joaquin Phoenix for the upcoming movie The Avengers film.

Film website Chud.com reports that Phienix is taking his time to decide, but that a decision is likely before the annual Comic Con exhibition in San Diego on July 22.
Although the role is likely to be small, the 35-year-old Puerto Rican actor needs a solid, big-budget film – he has been away from the big screen since his 2009 Two Lovers.

Meanwhile, Norton’s agent says the actor wanted to work on the new film, contrary to Marvel statements. Brian Swardstrom of WME tells HitFix, "This offensive statement from Kevin Feige at Marvel is a purposefully misleading, inappropriate attempt to paint our client in a negative light.

“Counter to what Kevin implies here, Edward was looking forward to the opportunity to work with Joss and the other actors in the Avengers cast," he says. "Feige's statement is unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory. Mr. Norton talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel's fans."

Swardstrom says Marvel previously agreed to have Norton playing The Hulk in the upcoming film until they apparently decided to go to another direction with the part before the deal was reached, probably because of "financial decision".

Other members of The Avengers cast reportedly include Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth and Samuel L Jackson on the current cast line-up. Joss Whedon’s film is set for a May 2010 release.