Tron: Ares (12A) |Close-Up Film Review
Dir: Joachim Rønning, 2025, US, 119mins
Cast: Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Jodie Turner-Smith, Jeff Bridges
Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara
Ares (Jared Leto), is a sentient program created to try and bridge the gap between the digital and human worlds. He is sent on a mission that could change both realities forever. But when Ares begins to question his identity and purpose, his caught between creation and destruction, while the fate of both worlds hangs in the balance.
Tron Ares dives much deeper and harder into the technology, identity and connection of the characters than previous films. Seeing those neon lights flicker and the cycles light come roaring in makes for visually jaw-dropping moments throughout the film. The Grid has never looked more alive, slick, vibrant, and immersive from the first frame to the last. The sound design helps us capture the full experience with every pulse, and crash feeling totally alive and the score by Nine Inch Nails giving us an adrenaline rush. It’s impossible thought not to compare this to the outstanding Daft Punk’s Legacy soundtrack of the previous film Tron: Legacy. This new movie score however sounds good, it’s a quality piece of work and a great addition to the saga.
Performance-wise, Jodie Turner-Smith who plays Athena, stands high above her fellow cast members. She plays a character who is commanding and fierce, delivering one of the best performances in the film. Greta Lee (Eve Kim) follows her closely with her strong presence in every scene she’s in. Jared Leto brings intensity to Ares, while the legendary Jeff Bridges returns as Kevin Flynn, a character who appeared in the original movie. His appearance alone has sparked excitement for the fans, as something they’ve been craving.
My only disappointment is the story. Stunning as it looks, the plot feels tangled and a bit messy. Overall however this is an entertaining film, which will attract both new and old movie lovers into the cinema. And make sure you stay for the post-credit scene!
