As the first details about TRON: Ares start to surface, it seems like the film will have a different setting compared to the first two films. This change might disappoint longtime TRON fans. The third TRON movie has faced production challenges over the years, including pandemic delays, Hollywood strikes, and Disney putting the franchise on hold. However, the film is now officially moving forward and is set to be released in 2025. It is expected to have some connection to the original two films, but changes are also in store.
TRON: Ares will feature Jared Leto in the lead role of the character Ares, and the cast will also include Evan Peters, Greta Smith, and Gillian Anderson. While details about the plot of this third installment in the Disney franchise are scarce, it will be linked in some way to the original TRON from 1982 and its 2010 sequel, TRON: Legacy. With a brand-new cast on board, this film aims to achieve greater critical and commercial success than TRON: Legacy. However, one aspect of the movie might raise concerns among dedicated TRON fans.
Both TRON and TRON: Legacy are available to stream on Disney+
TRON: Ares Might Primarily Take Place Outside Of The Grid
Tron 1982, red light suit from TRON: Ares, and TRON: Legacy - TRON: Ares Might Primarily Take Place Outside Of The Grid
The official synopsis of TRON: Ares reveals that the story follows a sophisticated Program named Ares, who is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission. This marks the first encounter of humankind with A.I. beings. If this movie focuses on a new program venturing into the real world for a mission, it suggests that the time spent in The Grid would be limited. Unlike the first two TRON films that mainly took place within The Grid, a shift to a story outside the virtual world would be a significant departure.
"TRON: Ares introduces us to Ares, a highly advanced Program sent from the digital realm to the real world for a dangerous mission, marking the first meeting between humans and A.I. beings."
It's understandable that after two TRON movies, the franchise would want to delve into the idea of what would happen if a sophisticated program or artificial intelligence managed to escape The Grid. The ethical use of artificial intelligence is a hot topic in Hollywood, politics, and culture. It would be a natural progression for the TRON universe to shift from humans engaging with programs in its world to programs interacting with humans in ours. However, fans of the series might find it disappointing if the movie spends limited time in The Grid.
TRON: Ares Being Set In The Real World Would Be Incredibly Disappointing
Jared Leto looking back in Tron Ares - TRON: Ares Being Set In The Real World Would Be Incredibly Disappointing
The first images of Jared Leto's character in TRON: Ares show a red-lighted character inside The Grid. However, the official synopsis suggests that this character may quickly break free from The Grid, which could be disappointing. This departure from the first two films could mean fewer lightcycles, identity discs, computerized cities, Outlands, and other defining features of the computer program.
When TRON first debuted in 1982, it was lauded for its use of computer-generated worlds within The Grid. Over the next 30 years, advancements in technology allowed TRON: Legacy to be celebrated for its visual effects. Now, with 14 additional years of technological progress, a TRON film primarily set outside The Grid might not fully capitalize on these advancements. While TRON: Ares may or may not directly follow TRON: Legacy, straying from the established traditions of the first two films could disappoint fans of the beloved franchise.
Editor's P/S:
The upcoming "TRON: Ares" movie has sparked mixed reactions among fans. While the introduction of a new lead character and a mission in the real world brings fresh possibilities, it also raises concerns about the departure from the franchise's core setting, The Grid. Some fans may find it disappointing if the film focuses primarily outside the virtual world, as the stunning visuals and iconic elements of the previous TRON movies have been a significant part of their appeal.
Ultimately, the success of "TRON: Ares" will depend on how it balances the desire for innovation with the expectations of longtime fans. The film has the potential to expand the franchise while remaining faithful to its roots, but only time will tell if it meets the high standards set by its predecessors.