Jared Leto finds himself in a challenging position in the latest sci-fi installment, “Tron: Ares.” Playing a malfunctioning computer program striving for empathy and a real human experience, Leto’s character navigates a narrative that lacks originality and substance. Despite his earnest efforts to be taken seriously as an actor, Leto’s filmography includes less-than-stellar titles like “Suicide Squad” and “Morbius.”
“Tron: Ares” attempts to build on its predecessor, “Tron: Legacy,” by introducing a new protagonist, Eve Kim, a tech CEO embroiled in AI research and corporate rivalries. The plot unfolds in a digitally immersive world where technology reigns supreme, offering boundless resources for innovation and conflict. As the story progresses, the characters grapple with ethical dilemmas and the pursuit of power through technological advancements.
The film’s narrative trajectory, while ambitious, falls short of eliciting strong emotions or profound reactions from viewers. Despite its sleek cinematography and a notable Nine Inch Nails score, “Tron: Ares” struggles to carve out a distinctive voice in the realm of AI-themed storytelling. The movie sidesteps meaningful commentary on AI uprisings and tech industry influence, opting instead for surface-level action sequences and character dynamics.
While “Tron: Ares” may entertain with its engaging visuals and occasional thrills, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling narrative or thematic depth. Its reluctance to delve into the complexities of AI ethics and corporate power dynamics leaves a void in its storytelling, making it a forgettable addition to the sci-fi genre landscape.