Spider-Man: Brand New Day, currently in theaters, includes a scene that humorously acknowledges a long-standing fan debate surrounding Thanos's motivations in Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. The film, while setting up future Marvel Cinematic Universe entries, takes a moment to reflect on the Avengers' past conflict with the Mad Titan.
Midway through the movie, Peter Parker, portrayed by Tom Holland, grapples with a DNA imbalance affecting his Spider-Man abilities. Lacking the Avengers' resources, he seeks help from one of the team's scientific minds. Bruce Banner, played by Mark Ruffalo, is depicted as a university professor, using an inhibitor to manage the Hulk during lectures.
Peter infiltrates one of Dr. Banner's classes. A student, seemingly adept at derailing academic discussions with superhero-related inquiries, poses a pertinent question: if Thanos was concerned about overpopulation, why did he opt for a genocidal snap with the Infinity Stones instead of using them to increase resources? Banner deflects the question by pointing to another student and quipping, "Hulk smash!"
This moment serves as a meta-commentary on the perceived nonsensical nature of Thanos's plan, a point of contention for fans since Infinity War's 2018 premiere. For nearly a decade, audiences have debated why Thanos chose mass extinction over resource generation, questioning his claim of making a necessary sacrifice for the greater good. While some label it a plot hole, others interpret Thanos as a tyrant unwilling to consider alternative solutions. Banner's deflection mirrors a perceived shrug from Marvel, acknowledging the fan criticism without offering a definitive in-universe explanation, yet providing a humorous nod to the enduring puzzle.