Tron: Ares takes place at a moment when advances in digital technology bring the human world and the Grid closer to direct interaction than ever before. ENCOM, now led by CEO Eve Kim (Greta Lee), uncovers a breakthrough that could permanently alter how programs and humans coexist. At the same time, Dillinger Systems—run by Julian Dillinger (Evan Peters), grandson of former ENCOM rival Ed Dillinger—develops its own initiative to control this emerging digital frontier. Central to their plan is Ares (Jared Leto), a highly advanced program built for operations outside the Grid, supported by his second-in-command, Athena (Jodie Turner-Smith).
As competing corporations race to secure control of this new technology, Ares becomes the key figure in a larger struggle over who will define the next stage of human–program interaction. His mission draws him into contact with leaders, creators, and programs whose goals intersect with—and sometimes challenge—his own directive. The unfolding conflict pushes the boundaries of both worlds and sets events in motion that will determine the future connection between reality and the digital realm.
Directed by Joachim Rønning (“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales,” “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil”), the film returns audiences to the world of Tron with striking visuals and a seamless blend of digital and real-world environments. Rønning delivers impressive effects work, bold action, and memorable costume design. The film maintains a swift pace, while still allowing moments for the story to breathe.
I found the story enjoyable overall, though at times I wondered whether it was aiming for commentary on AI and its potential dangers. The plot feels only loosely connected to the first two films, functioning more as an exploration of new territory within the Tron universe than a continuation of the existing narrative.
Given the material, the cast delivers solid performances, with Rønning’s direction helping to elevate the screenplay. His collaboration with Nine Inch Nails on the score is particularly effective, adding an additional layer of intensity to the action sequences.
One aspect that bothered me was the absence of Bruce Boxleitner’s Alan Bradley. The film offers no explanation for his whereabouts, which feels like a missed opportunity considering his importance to the earlier installments.
The digital home release includes several worthwhile bonus features. Three deleted scenes are presented; two were understandably cut for pacing reasons, while the third—featuring a cameo from original Tron director Steven Lisberger—feels like a loss, and it’s a shame it didn’t make the final film.
The Journey to Tron: Ares features cast and crew discussing their return to the Tron universe, along with insights into the film’s stunts, visuals, and costumes. Lightcycles on the Loose explores the evolution of the franchise’s iconic vehicles, including how they were integrated into real-world environments with the help of Industrial Light & Magic. As a longtime fan of the lightcycles, I loved this featurette.
The Artistry of Tron: Ares highlights Joachim Rønning and Jared Leto discussing the film’s design and production. Their shared enthusiasm is genuinely engaging. Cast Conversations pairs actors to reflect on their work, including Evan Peters with Gillian Anderson, Greta Lee with Jodie Turner-Smith, and—my personal favorite—Jared Leto with Jeff Bridges, with Leto fully embracing his inner fanboy.
The final featurette, The Legacy of Tron, delves into the film’s Easter eggs and cameos. While the content is fascinating, the narrator’s energetic, pre-show-theater style delivery became grating. A different approach would have served the material better.
In the end, while the script has its issues, I still enjoyed the film. Visually, it must have been stunning on a theatrical screen with premium sound, and I’m almost annoyed I didn’t see it in theaters. Even at home, though, Tron: Ares remains a visually impressive and entertaining experience., I enjoyed the film. Just looking at the visuals, this was probably amazing on a movie screen with a better sound system. I’m almost ticked I didn’t go see it in theaters. But watching at home was still an enjoyable experience.
Tron: Ares is currently available for digital download and will be on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and DVD beginning January 6, 2026.
Dan Kleiner 
Newsdesk