Disney has officially unveiled the first trailer for "TRON: Ares," the highly anticipated third installment in the iconic science fiction franchise that began with the original "TRON" film in 1982. Released on April 5, 2025, the trailer offers a thrilling glimpse into a world where the digital and real collide, showcasing a dramatic high-speed chase that sets the stage for the film's narrative.
The new film, directed by Joachim Rønning, stars Jared Leto as Ares, a sophisticated program sent from the digital world into reality on a dangerous mission. This marks humankind's first encounter with artificial intelligence beings, a theme that resonates deeply in today's tech-driven society.
In the trailer, viewers witness a breathtaking chase scene featuring two Light Cycles racing through a bustling metropolis, leaving behind glowing trails that slice through a police car. This striking imagery emphasizes the film's premise of a digital invasion into the real world, a concept that has been hinted at since the franchise's inception but is now fully realized.
“As a kid I was obsessed with TRON,” Leto shared during the CinemaCon presentation, where the trailer was first showcased. “The future felt it was right around the corner. It had everything I wanted from a movie — action, adventure, and spandex — it took me to a world that I never knew. This movie will hit you right in the grid.” His enthusiasm reflects the nostalgic connection many fans have with the franchise.
Joining Leto in the cast is Jeff Bridges, reprising his role as Kevin Flynn, a character he originally portrayed in the first two films. Flynn's voice can be heard in the trailer, saying, “Ready? 'Cause there’s no going back,” which adds a layer of intrigue and continuity for longtime fans. The film also features a talented ensemble cast, including Greta Lee, Evan Peters, Hasan Minhaj, Jodie Turner-Smith, Arturo Castro, Cameron Monaghan, and Gillian Anderson.
Produced by Sean Bailey, Jeffrey Silver, Justin Springer, Jared Leto, Emma Ludbrook, and Steven Lisberger, with Russell Allen serving as executive producer, "TRON: Ares" aims to build upon the legacy established by its predecessors. The film is set to hit U.S. theaters on October 10, 2025, and promises to deliver a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and storytelling.
One of the most exciting aspects of "TRON: Ares" is its score, which will be composed by the iconic band Nine Inch Nails. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who have previously collaborated on numerous film scores, will be credited under the Nine Inch Nails name for the first time. This announcement was made during Disney's D23 event in 2024, generating buzz about the film's auditory experience.
As the trailer unfolds, it reveals not only the exhilarating action but also a darker tone that suggests a deeper narrative. The collision of the digital and physical worlds raises questions about reality and identity, themes that resonate with contemporary audiences navigating an increasingly digital landscape.
Critics have noted that this new installment appears to push the boundaries of the TRON universe. Unlike previous films where the digital realm remained distinctly separate from reality, "TRON: Ares" blurs these lines. The trailer hints at a world where the digital and real coexist more closely than ever before, creating a thrilling tension that could redefine the franchise.
The visuals are a feast for the eyes, with laser-filled action sequences and electrifying sound effects that promise to immerse viewers in the TRON universe. The minute-and-a-half-long trailer is accompanied by a pulsating soundtrack, further enhancing the film's dynamic atmosphere.
As anticipation builds for the film's release, fans are eager to see how "TRON: Ares" will expand on the franchise's rich lore and introduce new elements that resonate with both new audiences and loyal followers. The film's exploration of AI and its implications for humanity is a timely topic, reflecting societal concerns about technology's rapid advancement.
In summary, "TRON: Ares" is poised to be a landmark entry in the TRON franchise, combining nostalgia with modern themes and cutting-edge visuals. With its release just months away, excitement continues to grow as fans prepare to return to The Grid.
