Tron: Ares Hits Theaters: Can It Win the Box Office and Break a 40-Year-Old Curse?
This weekend, a familiar neon glow returns to the big screen with Tron: Ares. The big question on everyone’s mind is whether this third trip into the digital world of the Grid can finally turn the cult classic franchise into a true blockbuster.
Early predictions say Tron: Ares will easily take the top spot at the box office. But here’s the twist: it’s expected to open with around $40 million. For a movie that cost a hefty $150 million to make, that number feels a little… quiet.
So, what does this all mean? Let’s dive in.
A Legacy of ‘Just Okay’
If you’re a fan, you know the Tron series has always been the cool underdog. It’s like that amazing band your friend showed you that never quite topped the charts.
The original Tron from 1982 was a visual marvel, but it had the worst luck imaginable. It opened in a summer packed with all-time classics like E.T. and Blade Runner. It managed to make a little money, but it wasn’t the hit Disney hoped for.
Fast forward to 2010’s Tron: Legacy. With a mind-blowing Daft Punk soundtrack and stunning visuals, it seemed destined for glory. Yet, despite its massive budget, it also just managed to break even. It was a beautiful film that, once again, didn’t quite connect with a massive audience.
And that brings us to today. Disney is rolling the dice one more time.
What’s Driving Tron: Ares?
So, is a $40 million opening a good or bad thing? Well, it’s complicated.
The Good Stuff
Let’s be honest, people go to see a Tron movie for two main reasons: the jaw-dropping visuals and the killer soundtrack. Tron: Ares is promising to deliver on both fronts, with a new score from the legendary Nine Inch Nails. Plus, it has a clear path to number one. The Taylor Swift concert film phenomenon has ended its run, so there’s no major competition stealing its audience.
The Big Question Marks
That $150 million budget is the elephant in the room. A $40 million start in North America means the film has a long, uphill climb to profitability. The star power of Jared Leto is also a bit of a wild card.
However, Disney has an ace up its sleeve: the international box office. The previous films have performed better overseas, and the studio is likely banking on global audiences to push Tron: Ares into the black. It might not be a smash hit at home, but it probably won’t lose money in the long run.
What Else Is Playing This Weekend?
While Tron: Ares will be the main event, there are a few other movies vying for your attention.
The runner-up is expected to be Roofman, a film starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst that’s already getting fantastic reviews. It’s predicted to open with a modest $8 million, but don’t be surprised if this one sticks around for a while. Great word of mouth and some early Oscar buzz could give it some serious staying power.
Here’s a quick look at the rest of the predicted top five:
- One Battle After Another: $6 million
- The Smashing Machine: $3.5 million
- Gabby’s Dollhouse: $3 million
It seems the Tron franchise is destined to continue its legacy: a visually spectacular series that wins the weekend but keeps us all guessing about its long-term success.
So, what are your plans for movie night? Are you heading into the Grid to see Tron: Ares, or is another film catching your eye? Let us know