TRON: Legacy | Film Review

Story by Dylan Bliss 

| Published Jan 2, 2011

No one really likes 1982’s “Tron”. It was thrown together void of any semblance of character or plot, and the majority of the eye candy wasn’t even computer generated. Anyone who reminisces over “Tron” was either 5 years old when the VHS hit, or suffers daily from being a complete idiot. From what I can see, the movers in Hollywood saw a shot to make a really impressive visual treat fueled by 35 year-old nerds. Plus, every producer’s been trying to grope anything Jeff Bridges since he snagged an oscar for “Crazy Heart” last year. Despite the cruel intentions, the right people were put behind the project and “TRON: Legacy” admittedly shines much harder than I’d expected.

Garrett Hedlund, a virtual no-name leaden with bit roles in some awful action flicks from the past ten years, takes the helm as Flynn’s(Jeff Bridges) son all grown up. He’s been lured back into the “Grid” to provide an escape for Flynn’s creation-turned enemy, Clue, who bears an almost creepy motion capture resemblance to a young Jeff Bridges.

First, I’ll start with the visuals. The dopes who convinced us that the first “Tron” was on the cutting of special effects have created a self-fulfilling prophecy with “Legacy”. These are some of the most impressive set pieces I’ve ever witnessed. The whole theme of the “Grid” comes off as a Daft Punk wet dream(the duo even make an appearance as programmed DJs hosting one of the several impressive fight scenes); every suit, vehicle, and room is beautifully accented with a tasteful neon glow. Every focal point radiates against a sunless sky and shines and shines and shines with an extremely potent sheen.

All this could be laid to waste with poor direction and acting. Luckily, “Legacy” gets a high score in both areas; I rarely, if ever, had an inkling to roll my eyes at the dialogue or action. I was unendingly pleased with all the combat, stealth, and speed integrated meaningfully within every scene. The mood throughout is cold and stark, the script is penned with a natural rhythm, and the pace never fails to fall right in step. “TRON: Legacy” is a treat for all senses and sensibilities. The sum of all its parts may not be epic, but it’s a game worth playing(especially in theaters).

-Dylan Bliss

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