The grid has come alive once more after a 15-year hiatus, and this time, it’s shining in a fresh light. With *Tron: Ares* hitting theaters worldwide, fans of the franchise are eager to dive back into this remarkable universe. This latest installment offers both nostalgia and a new direction, yet it has garnered mixed reviews from viewers. In this review, we’ll explore what *Tron: Ares* brings to the table and examine the reasons behind its lukewarm reception.
The Story Works Better Than You’d Expect
The *Tron: Ares* trailer hinted at a straightforward plot: a program enters the real world amidst an invasion, set on stopping it. However, the film’s narrative is layered and nuanced. We meet Ares (Jared Leto), a program that evolves from a mere collection of code into a sentient being questioning his existence, ultimately driving the plot forward. This complexity adds depth without feeling forced.
Meanwhile, we are introduced to Eve Kim (Greta Lee), the new CEO of ENCOM, who is desperately searching for the Permanence Code—a powerful line of code with the potential to make digital entities permanently real. Her personal struggle with her sister’s death and her conflicted feelings about leaving ENCOM add another emotional layer to the story.
Julian Dillinger (Evan Peters), the antagonist and CEO of Dillinger Systems, is deeply possessive and unsettling, yet does not resort to violence, making his presence all the more uncomfortable. Peters delivers a standout performance, and the interplay between Ares’ defiance, Eve’s mission, and Julian’s obsession creates an engaging narrative. While the story may not be flawless, it surpasses expectations.
Jared Leto Is Well, Jared Leto, with a Few Moments of Glory
If you’re familiar with cinema, you’ve likely heard of the so-called “Jared Leto Curse.” However, in *Tron: Ares*, it seems Leto truly shines. While I wouldn’t claim this is his most remarkable performance, what he often lacks in emotional range is a perfect fit for his character. A humanized line of code doesn’t have to overflow with emotion—this aligns perfectly with Leto’s usual portrayal.
In several scenes, Leto proves he can embody Ares convincingly, showcasing moments that highlight his capability as an actor. While opinions on his work might vary, in this role, he brings a unique interpretation that resonates well with the theme of identity within a digital realm.
Nine Inch Nails Absolutely Nailed It with the Soundtrack
Now, let’s talk music. From one musician to another, the soundtrack is phenomenal. It enhances every scene, whether it’s a thrilling chase or an emotional moment, elevating the overall experience. After the iconic soundscape created for *Tron: Legacy* by Daft Punk, many doubted it could be topped, but the collaboration here proves otherwise, crafting a unique auditory experience that feels both fresh and nostalgic.
So, If Nothing’s Terrible, Why the Negativity Towards *Tron: Ares*?
<pAs children, we often feel the weight of our parents’ expectations. Similarly, Tron: Ares lives under the shadow of its predecessors. While it aims to honor the franchise’s legacy, it is not a sequel to Tron: Legacy. Instead, this reboot looks to forge its own path while maintaining the essence of Tron*.
Much of the negativity stems from expectations that this film should be a direct continuation of *Tron: Legacy*. If you keep comparing *Tron: Ares* to its predecessors, you may miss out on what this new entry offers. It brings a fresh perspective and a new life to the series, aiming to cultivate a new fanbase.
If you’ve hesitated to see this movie due to mixed reviews, remember that it’s carving its own identity in the *Tron* universe. Grab your tickets and immerse yourself in this exciting reimagination, and you just might discover a spark of what you loved about the original films while enjoying something new. While there’s always room for improvement, *Tron: Ares* shines bright enough to signal a hopeful future for the franchise.
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