TRON: Legacy

I have a vague impression of having watched the original TRON from 1982, but I’m not sure and I can’t remember if I liked it or not.  The sequel, however, is an enjoyable follow up to a movie that’s now become a classic (although it wasn’t received too well in its time).

Synopsis: Sam Flynn, the son of legendary software creator Kevin Flynn, seems stuck in his privileged life by the sudden loss of his father when he was a young boy.  Suddenly though, he’s sucked into the same virtual world that had kidnapped his dad over a decade earlier, and the two are reunited.  Not everything is fine in this virtual world though, and it will be up to Kevin to make sure that Sam is able to return to the real world.

Considering that the entire virtual world is obviously computer generated, the visual effects are quite exceptional, and they were probably great in 3D.  The score is a perfect match and the screenplay is simple and predictable but overall not bad (the face off between Kevin and Clu is fascinating if only for the rejuvenating effect on Bridges’ features).  The acting is average though and even the great Jeff Bridges, who reprises the role he first played almost 30 years ago, doesn’t wow us.

The nice surprise was seeing Michael Sheen in a funny, eclectic, and crazier role as Zuse that turned the image I had of him from Frost/Nixon and The Queen completely on its head.  Bravo!

The Bottom Line: TRON: Legacy is neither a crappy nor a great sci-fi movie.  It’s a good sequel to a visionary (for its time) but ultimately bland 80s sci-fi movie that holds its own and doesn’t disappoint.  Don’t expect too much though.

Grade: 6