Here’s a bold statement: the Tron franchise is one of the most inconsistent yet fascinating 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 let’s be honest—none of the Tron movies have ever been blockbuster hits. So, why does Disney keep revisiting this franchise? The answer lies in their long-term profitability. While they may not break records upfront, these films eventually turn a profit through worldwide box office and ancillary revenue streams. Even if Ares doesn’t light up the charts, it’s likely to follow suit.
But now, the burning question: which Tron movie is the best? It’s a tricky debate, because let’s face it—none of them are flawless. Fans often praise the original for its groundbreaking visuals in the 80s, but it wasn’t exactly a darling of critics or audiences at the time. And this is the part most people miss: How Did This Get Made host Paul Scheer, who was a kid when the original came out, recently penned a thought-provoking piece on his Substack (https://paulscheer.substack.com/p/i-dont-get-tron) questioning the trilogy’s legacy. He argues that calling the original an ‘unassailable eighties classic’ is a stretch—though he admits he’s still trying to ‘get’ what makes Tron so enduring.
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 Paul Scheer, tell us why you just don’t ‘get’ the series. And here’s a question to spark debate: Is Tron a misunderstood masterpiece, or a franchise that’s outlived its relevance? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
