Tron: Ares Review – A Visually and Sonically Immersive Adventure, But Not Without Its Flaws...
Plot Unveiled:
In the realm of technology, a nefarious tech genius, Dillinger (Evan Peters), discovers a groundbreaking method to bring AI programs from The Grid into the physical world, but with a catch: they can only exist for a fleeting 29 minutes before fading away. Enter Ares (Jared Leto), Dillinger's security program, tasked with a mission to retrieve critical data and eliminate rival CEO Eve (Greta Lee). However, the real world transforms Ares, bestowing upon him a newfound capacity for compassion and a yearning to become human.
Review: A Mixed Bag with Visual and Audio Excellence
Tron, a Disney franchise, has always held the potential to be a blockbuster sensation. Its premise, a virtual world inhabited by computer programs with their own personalities and reality, resonates deeply in our AI-driven future. Yet, despite the franchise's immense potential, no director has successfully captured its essence. The original Tron was groundbreaking, but Tron: Legacy, while visually stunning, lacked depth in storytelling and character development.
Tron: Ares introduces a compelling twist, presenting a program as the protagonist. Jared Leto's portrayal of Ares is a standout, embodying the enigmatic and strange qualities that have previously hindered his leading man status. Ares, akin to Pinocchio, evolves from a program designed for destruction into a compassionate being, thanks to his interactions with Eve, the secondary protagonist.
The film's narrative takes an unexpected turn, showcasing programs entering the real world rather than humans venturing into The Grid. Leto's Ares evolves, embracing the simple joys of humanity, including a delightful reference to Depeche Mode's music.
Despite its strengths, Tron: Ares faces challenges. The initial half-hour is slow, with Ares taking time to become central to the plot. Greta Lee, strong in indie dramas, is underutilized, burdened with excessive tech talk and awkward comedic relief. However, the film picks up pace with a thrilling motorcycle chase involving Lightcycles in the real world, showcasing the seamless blend of action and visual splendor.
The film's visual and audio excellence is undeniable. Director Joachim Rønning's collaboration with cinematographer Jeff Cronenweth, known for his work on David Fincher's classics, results in a sleek and moody aesthetic. The IMAX aspect ratio enhances the experience when characters transition to The Grid. The visual effects are breathtaking, and the Nine Inch Nails soundtrack, with nods to Wendy Carlos's iconic score, adds to the retro charm.
Unfortunately, the human drama falls short. Evan Peters' portrayal of Dillinger is over-the-top, making it challenging to believe he could become a CEO. Gillian Anderson's performance as Dillinger's mother is more convincing, though still somewhat one-dimensional. Jeff Bridges, returning as Kevin Flynn, feels like an afterthought, with minimal screen time.
Jodie Turner-Smith stands out as Athena, Ares' rival, with her striking appearance and commanding presence, offering a refreshing contrast to Peters' performance.
In conclusion, Tron: Ares is a mixed bag, but its action sequences and immersive audio-visual experience make it an enjoyable ride. While a truly great Tron film remains elusive, Ares offers an entertaining glimpse into the world of The Grid, leaving audiences eager for more.
7/10
