Inside the Set of ‘Tron: Ares’ – A New Chapter in Sci-Fi
The set of Disney’s highly anticipated sequel, Tron: Ares, is currently bustling with activity at Mammoth Studios in Vancouver, BC. As part of a press visit on February 20, 2024, attendees were treated to a first-hand look at the production, which promises to breathe new life into the beloved franchise. With a release date set for October 10, 2024, excitement is building around this new chapter in the Tron universe.
“Are there lightcycles in this movie?” was a question on many minds as the visit began. The iconic vehicles, which have become synonymous with the franchise since the original Tron in 1982, were indeed present—multiple lightcycles, to be precise. Press members even had the opportunity to sit on one, which will feature alongside stars such as Jared Leto, Greta Lee, and Evan Peters when the film hits theaters.
The journey to Tron: Ares has not been straightforward. Following the release of Tron: Legacy in 2010, there were attempts to develop a sequel that stalled over the years. Producer Justin Springer explained that the decision was ultimately made to shift focus towards a new story that would resonate with contemporary themes. “The world has changed, and the ideas in Tron: Legacy felt a little dated,” he remarked. The new film explores the intersection of the real world and the digital realm, particularly in the context of advancing technology, artificial intelligence, and synthetic biology.
The narrative of Tron: Ares revolves around two rival companies, Encom and Dillinger, competing to obtain the Permeance Code. This key technology would allow digital assets from the Grid to become permanent in the real world. While Dillinger, led by Evan Peters, aims to utilize this for military gain, Encom, which Kevin Flynn once transformed, seeks to innovate and adapt, recovering from a decline in fortunes over the past 14 years. The current CEO, Greta Lee‘s character, is determined to leverage Flynn’s legacy to drive the company into a new era.
As production progressed, it became evident that Ares, a program portrayed by Jared Leto, would play a pivotal role in the unfolding story. Initially serving the Dillinger Grid, Ares eventually realizes he is on the wrong side and teams up with Encom’s Eve. This alliance not only traverses the real world but also explores various versions of the Grid, including a return to the iconic aesthetics of the original film.
During the set visit, the design team showcased concept art revealing the intricacies of the film’s visual world. Unique sets, such as the Extraction Room and Regeneration Room, were built to immerse actors and audiences alike in the digital landscape. Production designer Darren Gilford highlighted the importance of integrating character and machine in the design of vehicles and environments, emphasizing the symbiosis of the rider and the machine.
Filming also included scenes that push the boundaries of practical effects. The lightcycles, a hallmark of the franchise, have been meticulously crafted to create a realistic and thrilling experience. “This is the Dillinger lightcycle, a militaristic and brutal version,” Gilford noted, underscoring the innovative design process behind these iconic vehicles.
Director Joachim Rønning expressed his dedication to infusing the film with emotional depth while maintaining the franchise’s darker themes. “This movie is very much about what it takes to be human,” he stated, hinting at the complex character arcs that will unfold in the film.
As the visit concluded, attendees were left with a sense of anticipation about the future of the Tron franchise. With a blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology, Tron: Ares aims to capture the imagination of both long-time fans and new audiences. The integration of lightcycles into a physical reality represents not just a continuation of a beloved story but a bold step into the future of film-making. As the countdown to October 10, 2024 begins, the excitement surrounding this project continues to grow, promising a cinematic experience that could redefine the legacy of Tron.
