Tron: Another 28 Years Later

I recalled watching Tron when I was in junior college. Just this afternoon, I watched Tron Legacy 3D – sequel to the 1982 cult film starring Jeff Bridges and Bruce Boxleitner. Both actors reprise their roles, with the son of the founder of computer-software conglomerate, ENCOM as the key protagonist in this Disney film. Yes, both films were made under the Disney brand.

The 1982 film reflected the technology of that time, and the aged Kevin Flynn (Bridges) speaks in the same lingo when he finally meets his son, Sam 28 years later in the Grid in the new film. A computer-generated, 1982 version of Flynn, was designed to be a mirror role of his program gone rogue – and it looks pretty handsome. The suits have been redesigned, still with trademarked glow patches, and more contemporary helmets. The fight scenes on the light-cycles are spectacular, as are the identity-disc throwing combat ones. There are nice distractions by the clinical-white, female dressers for the younger Flynn (perhaps, in the virtual world they do have sensual desires?). We can allude that The Matrix Trilogy was inspired by this film’s concept of the Grid, where characters are programs (made up of routines and sub-routines) and are disabled in the arena. The flamboyant bartender-cum-club owner, Zeus steals a major scene with his David Bowie antics, reminiscent of Ziggy Stardust.

Overall, the characters have more flesh; Boxleitner’s role is, sadly, minor as focus is placed mostly on father-and-son (which they director has done successfully). The love interest between son, and the athletic and attractive female apprentice (Olivia Wilde) leaves room for interpretation and does not rob us of unnecessary screen-time. The music (by Daft Punk) and sound is very good; it should be considered for an Academy Award nomination. Overall, it is worth a watch for diehard fans and new generation of CGI fans who enjoy nostalgia of a phosphor-green screen, pre-notebook era. Watch the 3D version as it was designed to be an experience unto itself. I look forward to the DVD release with special features.