Tron Ares Review – A Stylish Return to the Grid

Tron: Ares marks the return of Disney’s iconic cyberpunk franchise, introducing a new chapter that blends sleek visuals with AI-driven narratives. Directed by Joachim Rønning, the film stars Jared Leto as Ares, a sophisticated program brought from the digital world into the real one. The plot centers around two tech giants, Encom and Dillinger Systems, racing to unlock a mysterious “Permanence Code” that could stabilize digital creations in reality.

Critics have noted that while the film dazzles with its neon-lit aesthetics and dynamic action sequences, it struggles to offer a fresh perspective on AI themes. Leto’s portrayal of Ares has been described as surprisingly restrained, adding an emotional depth to the character. Greta Lee’s performance as Dr. Eve Kim brings warmth and curiosity, grounding the chaos with moments of human sincerity. However, it’s Jodie Turner-Smith’s role as Athena, a morally ambiguous program, that stands out, injecting the film with a much-needed spark of menace.

The soundtrack, composed by Nine Inch Nails, has been praised for its atmospheric and industrial tones, enhancing the film’s cyber-industrial ambiance. Despite its visual appeal, some reviewers feel that Tron: Ares prioritizes style over substance, leaving the narrative feeling underdeveloped.