Disney’s latest reboot, “Tron: Ares,” faced significant challenges during its box office debut, earning $33.5 million domestically from 4,000 theaters. This number fell short of initial projections, which had estimated an opening between $40 million and $45 million.
Box Office Performance of “Tron: Ares”
Globally, “Tron: Ares” garnered $60.5 million, including $27 million from international markets. The film’s release in China is still pending, as it is set to debut next weekend. This underwhelming performance puts additional pressure on Disney regarding the future of a franchise that has struggled since its inception over 40 years ago.
Production Costs and Audience Reception
The production for “Tron: Ares” was substantial, with a net budget of $180 million after tax breaks. Critics’ reviews have been mixed, reflected in a 57 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, audience feedback is more positive, rating the film at 87 percent, with a four-out-of-five star average on PostTrak.
- Domestic opening weekend: $33.5 million
- Global total after opening: $60.5 million
- Production budget: $180 million
- Rotten Tomatoes critics’ score: 57%
- Audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes: 87%
Franchise History
The “Tron” franchise has faced delays, with a 33-year gap between the original film and its sequel, “Tron: Legacy,” which debuted in 2015 and opened to $44 million. “Legacy” ultimately secured a worldwide gross of $409.9 million. “Ares” spent a decade in development before its release, commanded by former Disney executive Sean Bailey.
Competition and Future Prospects
Furthermore, “Tron: Ares” faces minimal competition in the coming weekends, retaining key premium format screens such as IMAX and Dolby Cinema. This strategic placement could help bolster its box office performance in subsequent weeks.
Other releases that weekend include Miramax and Paramount’s “Roofman,” which obtained around $8 million from 3,362 theaters and received better reviews compared to “Ares.” Additionally, Sony’s “Soul of Fire” opened modestly with $3 million, though it is capturing audiences in specific regions of the U.S.
In summary, “Tron: Ares” is at a critical juncture as it attempts to revitalize a long-beloved yet tumultuous franchise. The film’s ability to connect with audiences and achieve a sustainable box office performance remains to be seen.
