What is Hancock’s Real Name? Unraveling the Mystery of the Immortal Superhero
The answer to “What is Hancock’s real name?” is surprisingly complex. In the 2008 film Hancock, the titular character, portrayed by Will Smith, doesn’t actually have a given name that he remembers. He suffers from amnesia, having lost his memories approximately 80 years before the events of the movie. The name “Hancock” is not his birth name; instead, it is a name he adopted after being asked for his “John Hancock” (a common American idiom referring to one’s signature). Thus, his “real name” in the context of the movie is an alias. The film deliberately leaves his original name shrouded in mystery, aligning with his ancient and enigmatic nature. He is a member of a long-lived race and was once worshipped as a god, making his true identity a matter of historical and perhaps mythical speculation.
The Origins of the Name “Hancock”
As explained in the movie, Hancock’s amnesia is triggered sometime around 80 years before the events of the movie. He recalls being asked for his signature — his “John Hancock” — during a time before his memory loss. He adopted this name, “Hancock,” likely due to its familiarity and because it resonated with him in a time of total memory loss. This seemingly random choice is ironic, as it connects him to John Hancock, a prominent figure in American history. This link subtly hints at Hancock’s own ancient history, shrouded by amnesia. His self-selected name is both a practical choice and a humorous nod to American culture.
A Life Before “Hancock”
The movie reveals that Hancock is not human. He belongs to a race of immortal beings who were once considered gods in ancient times. He is over 3,000 years old and has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations. The movie shows him interacting with his wife, Mary Embrey (Charlize Theron), over centuries, and even depicts them being attacked with swords in 4 B.C. While no specific names are given to them during these ancient times, it’s clear that “Hancock” is a relatively recent name he adopted. Prior to his amnesia, he likely had a different identity altogether, or even many different identities over thousands of years.
The Significance of Amnesia
Hancock’s amnesia is a critical part of his character arc. It allows him to exist as a sort of blank slate. He does not remember his past life, his true origin, or why he is so powerful. This lack of memory shapes his actions, often making him appear reckless and socially inept. He is a powerful being struggling with his existence, compounded by a sense of displacement. His struggle highlights the themes of identity and the consequences of power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hancock
To further clarify the details surrounding Hancock’s identity and origins, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. What is Hancock’s race?
Hancock is not human. He is a member of an ancient race of beings, similar to gods, who are immortal and possess superhuman abilities. These beings were once worshipped in ancient times.
2. Who is Mary Embrey to Hancock?
Mary Embrey is Hancock’s wife. Like him, she belongs to the same immortal race of beings. Their relationship is complex, as their proximity to one another weakens their powers and makes them mortal.
3. Why does Hancock have amnesia?
The exact reason for Hancock’s amnesia is not explained in great detail. However, it appears to be a consequence of his immortality and the traumas he’s experienced over thousands of years. The movie presents it as a kind of “reset” that happens to members of his race periodically when they are too close to their “pairs.”
4. What are Hancock’s powers?
Hancock possesses a range of superhuman abilities including superhuman strength, invulnerability, flight, and super speed. He is able to effortlessly lift heavy objects, withstand physical damage, fly at incredible speeds, and move at speeds faster than the normal human eye can perceive. He also has some control of the elements, as shown with the lighting scene when fighting Mary.
5. Is Hancock a god or an angel?
In the film, Hancock is presented as a member of an ancient race of beings who were once worshiped as gods. However, one of the articles above presents an alternative explanation that Hancock is a fallen angel who lost his wings, suggesting a different interpretation from the film itself. This contradiction serves to highlight the ambiguity surrounding his origins.
6. Why is Hancock so powerful?
His power stems from his heritage as a member of an immortal race. Their powers are inherent and not attributed to any external source, like a comic book origin.
7. Is Hancock a superhero?
While he possesses superhuman abilities, Hancock is initially portrayed as a reluctant and flawed hero, an anti-hero. His actions often cause as much destruction as they prevent. Over the course of the film, he begins to embrace a more heroic role.
8. What is Hancock’s weakness?
Hancock’s main weakness is his proximity to his wife, Mary. The closer they are, the weaker they become. Their powers diminish, and they become susceptible to harm. This is why they must stay apart.
9. Why did Hancock choose his name?
He adopted the name “Hancock” because he was asked for his “John Hancock” before losing his memory. He took the name as his own, having no other memory of a name.
10. Is there a “Hancock 2”?
Despite initial plans for a sequel, “Hancock 2” has not been made due to scheduling issues and creative disagreements.
11. Is Hancock based on a comic book?
No, Hancock is an original character created for the 2008 film. His story and world are not based on an existing comic book series.
12. How old is Hancock?
Hancock is approximately 3,000 years old. He remembers living in ancient Rome and Greece, but due to his amnesia, he only recalls being in Miami for about 80 years.
13. Can Hancock be defeated?
In the context of the film, Hancock cannot be defeated in a traditional sense, since he is immortal. However, his powers can be weakened when he is near Mary. He can be harmed by physical damage, but is not permanently harmed or killed.
14. Is Hancock an anti-hero?
Yes, Hancock is initially presented as an anti-hero. He possesses great power, but he’s irresponsible, careless and his methods are unorthodox. Over time, he takes on a more traditional hero’s role.
15. What kind of whiskey does Hancock drink?
In the film, Hancock is often seen drinking Seagram’s 7 whiskey from a 1.75-liter bottle.
Conclusion
While the film Hancock never reveals the character’s original name, it’s clear that “Hancock” is merely an alias adopted due to his amnesia. His true identity remains a mystery, wrapped in the enigma of his ancient past. This ambiguity is a crucial part of his character’s allure, prompting audiences to contemplate the true nature of his existence and the reasons behind his phenomenal powers. His story explores themes of identity, memory, and the responsibility that accompanies great power.