Nearly 15 years after the visually stunning “Tron: Legacy” reignited the Grid for a new generation, Disney is taking us back to the world of advanced programs and digitized reality. But this time, the journey is in reverse. “Tron: Ares” is the long-awaited third installment in the sci-fi franchise, and it’s set to flip the script entirely when it arrives in theaters on October 10.
Directed by Joachim Rønning and starring Jared Leto as the titular character, the new film trades a human entering the digital world for a highly sophisticated AI program being unleashed upon our own.
This premise promises a fresh take on the classic story, and the buzz surrounding the movie’s cutting-edge special effects and an original score from Nine Inch Nails has been building for months. But with a legacy to live up to, the question remains: does “Tron: Ares” deliver?
The Verdict on ‘Tron: Ares’ from Top Film Critics
Based on the initial reactions following the world premiere, the critical reception for “Tron: Ares” is decidedly mixed, echoing the divided opinions that followed “Legacy.” The consensus is clear on one point: the film is a feast for the eyes and ears. Reviewers universally praise the stunning visuals and the Nine Inch Nails soundtrack.
Source: IMDb
Many critics have noted that the production is a must-see in IMAX 3D, highlighting the breathtaking visuals and the strength of the musical score. However, where the picture excels in its aesthetic, it appears to stumble in its narrative.
The primary criticisms levied against the movie center on its plot and pacing. Several reviewers have labeled the story as uneven, with a clunky script that doesn’t live up to the visual spectacle. Specific issues raised include sloppy hand-to-hand fights and a feeling of nostalgic pandering that detracts from the new storyline.
The emotional core of the movie, which director Joachim Rønning aimed to connect with, seems to have been lost on some critics who didn’t care about any of the characters. While the action on the Grid is described as solid, the title reportedly doesn’t reach the highs of its predecessors, and the story gets bogged down in the third act with exposition.
Ultimately, critics are split on whether the dazzling visuals and sound are enough to compensate for what they see as a hollow or uninspired plot.
