TLDR;
Jeremy Jahns reviews "Tron: Ares," highlighting its stunning visuals and excellent soundtrack by Nine Inch Nails as its main strengths. However, he criticizes the film for its convoluted plot, lack of connection to "Tron: Legacy," and underdeveloped characters. He points out the missed opportunities to explore interesting themes and the over-reliance on nostalgia, ultimately finding the movie disappointing and forgettable.
- Great soundtrack and visuals
- Disconnected from previous movies
- Convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters
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Intro to Tron: Ares [1:08]
"Tron: Ares" is presented as the long-awaited sequel to "Tron: Legacy," though it features very few characters from the previous films, save for a forced cameo. The film is directed by the director of "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales" and "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil."
Plot Overview [1:32]
The movie returns to the Tron world, the Grid, where Dillinger Systems, led by CEO Julian Dillinger (played by Evan Peters), has discovered a method to bring programs from the digital world into the physical world. However, this process has complications, leading everyone to search for a solution. Dillinger Systems has a master control program named Aries (played by Jared Leto), who develops a conscience throughout the film.
Positives: Soundtrack and Visuals [2:07]
The best aspect of the film is the Nine Inch Nails soundtrack, which is described as perfect. The tracks are impactful, creating both ambience and excitement. Some tracks evoke the feel of Daft Punk's "Tron: Legacy" soundtrack, creating a sense of connection between the films. The CGI and visuals are also highlighted as impressive, making the movie a visual spectacle.
Lack of Connection to Tron: Legacy [4:21]
A major issue with "Tron: Ares" is that it doesn't feel like a sequel to "Tron: Legacy." It ignores the storylines and setups from the previous film, such as the ISOs and their potential to change the world. No significant characters from "Tron: Legacy" return, although there is an Easter egg suggesting a possible connection in a future movie. The absence of actors reprising their roles, even in a corporate setting, is a missed opportunity.
Character Issues [5:09]
The movie introduces many new characters that are not compelling. While Evan Peters is entertaining as Julian Dillinger, the corporate world feels filled with unfamiliar faces. Greta Lee, as the CEO of Encom, is underutilized and forgettable despite her importance to the plot. Jared Leto as Aries is a standout, with moments of humor, but the other characters, including the comic relief, fall flat.
Missed Themes and Nostalgia [6:31]
"Tron: Ares" touches on interesting themes, such as the weaponization of technology, but fails to explore them in depth. The plot revolves around finding a McGuffin to eliminate a complication, leading to action sequences. While there is nostalgia bait, it feels desperate due to the movie's mediocrity.
Overall Disappointment [7:38]
Ultimately, "Tron: Ares" is a disappointment. While it has a solid soundtrack and impressive visuals, it lacks depth and a compelling story. The film feels soulless, both in its corporate setting and in its overall execution, making it forgettable.