The recent release of Tron: Ares has left Disney wondering if the franchise is worth continuing. The film’s poor box office performance and lackluster reviews have raised questions about its place in the Disney stable. While not a complete disaster, the franchise has never been particularly successful, with each installment struggling to find its footing.
The original Tron (1982) was a modest success, earning $50 million on a budget of $17 million. However, it’s unlikely that any future sequels would have matched this feat. Tron: Legacy (2010) did better, but still fell short of expectations with a profit margin of less than 1.
Nostalgia played a significant role in the original film’s success, as its innovative special effects made it a spectacle on the big screen. However, this factor has worn off over time, and the franchise’s inability to expand organically beyond its cult status has led to diminishing returns financially.
Tron: Ares follows a familiar narrative pattern of an evil corporation and anti-AI themes, which have been done better elsewhere. The film’s story is predictable and lacks brand strength, making it difficult for audiences to find value in it.
Disney’s decision to revive the franchise was questionable from the start, particularly given the lack of cultural relevance and impact compared to other popular franchises like Star Wars or Avatar. Instead of being a major player in the sci-fi genre, Tron has always struggled to find its place.
The recent box office performance of Tron: Ares serves as a wake-up call for Disney to reassess the franchise’s viability. With a weak story and lackluster reception, it’s clear that Tron should not be continued beyond this point.
Source: https://www.cbr.com/disney-shelving-tron-franchise