"Tron: Ares: A Confusing Sequel Explained"

Tron fans have a thrilling reason to celebrate in 2025 as the beloved franchise makes its much-anticipated return to the big screen with "Tron: Ares." Set to release in October, this third installment in the series features Jared Leto in the lead role as Ares, a program who embarks on a high-stakes mission from the digital world to the real world, shrouded in mystery.

While it's tempting to label "Tron: Ares" as a sequel, the film presents a complex relationship with its predecessor, "Tron: Legacy." The newly released trailer showcases a visual continuity with the 2010 film, complete with the same striking aesthetic. The switch from Daft Punk to Nine Inch Nails for the soundtrack underscores the franchise's continued emphasis on its iconic electronica score.

However, "Ares" appears to lean more toward a soft reboot than a direct continuation. Notably absent are key characters from "Legacy" like Garrett Hedlund's Sam Flynn and Olivia Wilde's Quorra. Even more surprising is the return of Jeff Bridges, the only confirmed cast member from the previous films, despite his character's apparent demise in "Legacy." Let's delve into how "Legacy" set up a sequel and why "Ares" might be diverging from that path.

TRON: Ares Images

2 ImagesGarrett Hedlund’s Sam Flynn & Olivia Wilde’s Quorra

In "Tron: Legacy," the narrative centers on Sam Flynn and Quorra's intertwined journey. Sam, the son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), ventures into The Grid to rescue his father and thwart CLU's digital uprising. Along the way, he encounters Quorra, an ISO, a digital lifeform symbolizing the unexpected possibilities within The Grid. The film ends with Sam and Quorra returning to the real world, setting the stage for Sam to lead Encom into a future of openness and innovation.

The conclusion of "Legacy" clearly teases a sequel, with Sam poised to take over Encom and Quorra as the living testament to the marvels of the digital world. The home video release even included a short film, "Tron: The Next Day," hinting at Sam's new chapter at Encom. Yet, the absence of Hedlund and Wilde in "Ares" raises questions about the direction of the new film. "Legacy" earned $409.9 million worldwide against a $170 million budget, which, while respectable, fell short of Disney's expectations. This might have prompted a shift toward a more standalone story in "Ares."

However, ignoring Sam and Quorra's pivotal roles risks leaving a significant gap in the franchise's continuity. Fans are left wondering about their fates and whether "Ares" will at least acknowledge their contributions to the Tron universe.

Another notable absence from "Ares" is Cillian Murphy's Edward Dillinger, Jr., who was introduced in "Legacy" as a potential antagonist set up for a larger role in future installments. His brief appearance suggested a looming conflict with Sam over Encom's direction. The trailer for "Ares" hints at the return of the Master Control Program (MCP), with Ares and other programs sporting the MCP's signature red highlights. Yet, Dillinger's absence raises questions about the narrative's direction, especially with Evan Peters joining the cast as Julian Dillinger. Could Murphy still make a surprise return?

Bruce Boxleitner’s Tron

Perhaps the most startling omission is Bruce Boxleitner, the actor behind both Alan Bradley and the titular hero, Tron. In "Legacy," Tron's fate was left open-ended, hinting at a possible redemption arc. The decision to proceed without Boxleitner, especially in a film bearing the Tron name, is perplexing. Could the role of Tron be recast, perhaps with Cameron Monaghan?

The announcement of Jeff Bridges' return in "Tron: Ares" adds another layer of mystery. Both of his characters from "Legacy" met their end, yet his voice is heard in the trailer. Could he be reprising his role as Kevin Flynn, somehow surviving in The Grid, or perhaps as CLU? The inclusion of Bridges while sidelining other surviving characters from "Legacy" is a curious choice that "Ares" will need to address.

As fans eagerly await "Tron: Ares," the film promises to be a visually stunning addition to the franchise, complete with a thrilling score by Nine Inch Nails. Yet, the narrative choices regarding the continuity and character arcs from "Legacy" remain a point of intrigue and speculation. Whether "Ares" fully embraces its status as a sequel or opts for a fresh start, it's clear that the Tron universe is poised to expand in exciting new directions.