Get ready, users: Tron: Ares is on its way to becoming a reality, and I phrase it that way for a reason. Tron: Ares is poised to make good on the open ending of 2010’s Tron: Legacy with a plot focused on programs from the digital world making their way into the real world. In early 2024, Disney invited IGN to visit the set of Tron: Ares to share a wealth of details about what a modern Tron movie looks like, and how it attempts to establish an identity (disc) of its very own.
Tron: Ares is Proud of Its Legacy… But May Keep It at Arm’s Length
Our set visit began with a roundtable discussion with the film’s producer, Justin Springer, whose involvement with the franchise began as a co-producer on 2010’s Tron: Legacy. The conversation quickly shifted toward Ares and how it will continue the story laid out in Legacy. Early reports had hinted that Ares would be more of a reboot, focusing on a new program called Ares transitioning into the real world. This was a puzzling notion, especially considering the conclusion of Legacy, in which Sam Flynn, son of Jeff Bridges’ Kevin Flynn, brings the sentient program Quorra back with him.
Springer confirmed that Ares is indeed a soft reboot, meant to signify a fresh direction while seemingly moving on from the events of Legacy. However, the return of Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn (or whatever biodigital version we see in the trailer) suggests that the movie will retain vital connections to its predecessor. It’s clear that while Tron: Ares may explore new characters and storylines, it will still be rooted in the legacy of the series.
Springer discussed how the Tron series has evolved since 1982, stating that while the original film questioned the inner workings of a computer, Legacy took that exploration a step further by focusing on how that world evolved in isolation. In contrast, Ares aims to address the implications of blurred boundaries between the digital realm and our own—especially relevant in today’s world, where the conversation around artificial intelligence is more prevalent than ever.
Lightcycles Are Practically Built for the First Time Ever
When it comes to iconic imagery in the Tron franchise, the lightcycle stands out as a hallmark. The sleek design and the trails left behind by these vehicles received significant updates in Tron: Legacy. However, Tron: Ares takes this a step further by introducing working, practical lightcycles for the first time. During our set visit, we spoke with production designer Darren Gilford, who emphasized that these lightcycles are crafted for real-world action scenes, a shift from being purely digital creations.
Gilford, who has an extensive background in modern film design—including projects like the Star Wars sequel trilogy and The Dark Knight—designed the lightcycles to embody the film’s themes of merging man and machine. This innovative design allows a greater sense of immersion, aligning with modern trends like AR/VR technology that seeks to blur the line between the physical and digital worlds.
The Grids
One of the fascinating aspects covered during our set visit was the concept of “The Grid.” Those familiar with both Tron and Tron: Legacy know that each film depicts different digital realities. The “grid” in the original 1982 film was tied to ENCOM’s computer intranet, controlled by the sinister Master Control Program. In Legacy, the digital space evolved beyond that closed system, allowing for existential questions regarding created worlds.
Ares appears to explore multiple Grids—at least three distinct digital realities: one from the Dillinger Corporation, another from ENCOM, and yet another that remains a mystery. This complex layering should excite longtime fans as it enriches the overall narrative by acknowledging the franchise’s rich history.
Blending Real and Digital Worlds
The Tron franchise has always pushed the boundaries of filmmaking technology. The original movie was one of the first to utilize extensive CGI, while Legacy was a pioneer in 3D filmmaking and photorealistic character design. Within the Ares set, it was evident that the filmmakers are using every available method to bring the story to life. We toured soundstages and viewed scenes being shot using advanced volume digital set technology, known for creating immersive environments.
The film combines these innovative techniques with traditional, practical sets, like the impressive command bridge of Ares’ ship. Each set exudes the austere power that the Dillinger programs epitomize. With a nod to the past, the production also included Easter eggs; for instance, Kevin Flynn’s preserved office in Encom headquarters features a Rolodex with names from the original film, providing a tangible connection to the series’ legacy.
High-Octane Action Featuring a Familiar Face
Perhaps one of the most exhilarating parts of our set visit was witnessing rehearsals for a fight scene featuring Cameron Monaghan, known for his role as Cal Kestis in the Star Wars: Jedi franchise. Monaghan was seen wielding dual batons reminiscent of lightsabers—an attention-grabbing moment that had many of us excited for the intersection of these two beloved franchises.
This high-stakes action implies that Tron: Ares will not only have visually stunning sequences but also explore choreographed combat that heightens the emotional stakes for its characters. With Monaghan’s proven track record in action-oriented roles, fans can undoubtedly expect memorable moments.
Conclusion
As Tron: Ares approaches its release date on October 10, 2024, excitement is palpable among fans of the franchise. With its combination of nostalgia, modern technology, intriguing storylines, and thrilling action sequences, Ares appears ready to establish its own identity within the Tron universe.
The opportunities for blending the real and digital realms look promising. As we await the movie’s debut, we can anticipate a fresh exploration of themes that resonate widely today. Are you excited for Tron: Ares? Let us know in the comments, and stay tuned for more updates as we count down the days to its release!
