Here’s a bold statement: the Tron franchise is one of the most perplexingly inconsistent series in cinematic history. Think about it—the original Tron hit theaters in 1982, and it took a staggering 28 years for Tron: Legacy to arrive in 2010. Now, another 15 years later, we finally have Tron: Ares. But here’s where it gets controversial: early box office numbers (https://www.joblo.com/tron-ares-box-office/) suggest fans might have lost patience, with the film struggling to make a splash. But why does Disney keep coming back to this franchise? The answer lies in its peculiar financial trajectory. While none of the Tron movies have been blockbuster hits, they’re reliable catalog titles that eventually turn a profit—just not immediately. Even if Ares underperforms initially, it’s likely to break even over time when factoring in global box office and ancillary revenue.
But let’s dive into the heart of the matter: which Tron movie is the best? This question is trickier than it seems. None of the films are flawless, and their appeal has always been divisive. The original Tron is often hailed as a groundbreaking 80s classic, but it wasn’t universally loved upon release. Take How Did This Get Made host Paul Scheer, who was a kid in 1982 (unlike me—I was barely out of diapers). In a recent Substack piece (https://paulscheer.substack.com/p/i-dont-get-tron), Scheer challenges the notion that the original is untouchable, arguing that its legacy is more complicated than fans admit. Is he right? Or is there something about Tron that transcends its flaws?
And this is the part most people miss: the Tron series isn’t just about its visuals or story—it’s a cultural artifact that reflects the evolution of technology and storytelling. Even if you don’t “get” it, there’s no denying its impact. So, which Tron film takes the crown? I shared my ranking yesterday (https://www.joblo.com/tron-movies-ranked/), but now it’s your turn. Cast your vote for the best Tron movie—or, if you’re with Scheer, tell us why the series leaves you scratching your head. Is Tron a misunderstood masterpiece, or just a flashy experiment that never quite landed? Let’s debate in the comments!
