Mankind encounters AI beings for the first time when a highly sophisticated programme, Ares, leaves the digital world for a dangerous mission in the real world.
(C) Disney
Come to think of it, the previous Tron movies have already made the most of this concept. Despite all the talk about AI, as one character even notes in this film, there’s barely anything new in Tron: Ares. There's nothing particularly wrong with not bringing anything groundbreaking to the table, but even the familiar themes and narrative elements from the classics feel derivative in this version. It’s a crucial criticism of its predecessors, and it seems nothing has been addressed. The film even seems afraid to truly comment on the subject matter, instead leaning heavily into what worked before.
It becomes more unfortunate when you have a packed cast led by Greta Lee and then do almost nothing with them. Eventually, Lee gets to do something, which is nice. Jared Leto and Evan Peters are only here to move the story forward. Don’t even get me started on Gillian Anderson, who’s relegated to just commenting on or scolding Peters’ character. Surprisingly, despite her short screen time, Jodie Turner-Smith is a standout.
 |
| (C) Disney |
Obviously, the main selling point of the film is its visual style, and it still delivers even if no longer exceptional. Technology has caught up with the franchise’s visual demands, and Tron makes good use of it. And Nine Inch Nails provides the propulsive score this film needs. Find the cinema with the best sound near you as this will make your heart pound.
Is this the best Tron movie yet? That could be said, genuinely. It’s the one that finally has a bit of heart behind the incredible visuals and score. Ironically though, like the programs within it, it still doesn’t feel whole. Even some extended music videos have their story sorted out. 2/5 ⭐
