"Tron Ares" Sequel Disappoints with Weak $60M Global Debut

In a setback for Disney's sci-fi franchise, the studio's latest sequel "Tron: Ares" has failed to connect with audiences in its box office debut. The film collected a disappointing $33.5 million from 4,000 North American theaters over the weekend of October 12, 2025.

This weak start is particularly concerning given the massive $180 million price tag, not including marketing costs, that Disney has invested in the project. Overseas, "Tron: Ares" added another $27 million, bringing the global total to just $60 million through Sunday.

The performance pales in comparison to the prior installment, 2010's "Tron: Legacy," which opened to $44 million, not adjusted for inflation. While the new film received a "B+" grade from audiences, it struggled to expand beyond its core demographic of boys and men.

Despite the franchise's cult status, the latest entry has struggled to ignite widespread interest. Directed by "Pirates of the Caribbean" alum Joachim Rønning, "Tron: Ares" follows humanity's first contact with artificial intelligence as an advanced program enters the physical world.

The disappointing debut of "Tron: Ares" was part of a broader struggle at the box office, as fellow newcomers "Roofman" and "Kiss of the Spider Woman" also failed to gain traction with moviegoers.