Tron

Starring: Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, David Warner
Written by: Steven Lisberger 
Director: Steven Lisberger
Year: 1982

Rating: * * 1/2   Stars       +       (Fan Bonus * )  Total: * * * 1/2

There's no denying that Disney knows how to put out quality animated films, but their live action ones have been hit or miss. Coming off their lackluster effort, the Black Hole, Disney takes a chance on another sci-fi film, Tron.

At a time when America was first warming up to the idea of home computers, and baby-stepping their way to becoming technologically savvy, Tron's plot took a leap forward that confused audiences with some high tech concepts. It presents the idea that programs worshiped users, users being real world computer programmers. The programmers are their "creator", giving each program their very own messiah, if you will. The programs even take on the likeness of their user. However, the MCP, Master Control Program, became a totalitarian overlord enslaving the other programs and forcing them to deny their users or die in gladiatorial video games. This all goes on in the "computer universe" which is their perception of what goes on in our world. In our word, a corrupt CEO named Dillinger (David Warner) creates the MCP to control the rest of the corporation. All other programs, user access and activities, etc, have to be filtered through the MCP, giving this CEO total control of the network and allowing him to pirate software.

Bruce Boxleitner plays both Alan Bradley and his program, Tron. After losing security clearance, he enlists the help of friend, ex-employee, and hacker Kevin Flynn. Breaking into Encom, Alan looks to access his Tron program and break through the MCP, but the MCP fights back. Sitting in front of a new experimental laser, the MCP uses it to digitize Flynn and bring him into the computer universe. Flynn meets a host of enslaved programs, including Tron, and after a daring escape, they look to overthrow the MCP. Flynn is a real life user and inspires others as his presence validates their faith in the users. If that sounds convoluted to you, don't worry. You are not alone.

The strength of this film definitely lies in its visual presentation. Clearly, it seemed 10 years ahead of its time. As Mr. Dillinger, the MCP's voice, and the program Sark, David Warner is cold, cruel and callous in his performance making him the perfect villain (villains). Amazing sequences and visceral scenery make this a great popcorn film. You may not fully "get it", but you won't care.

Since it came out, it inspired two successful arcade games, and a 2010 sequel; Tron:Legacy. Like its predecessor, Legacy is a tour de force on the eyes, but leaves you scratching your head.

SEE THE TRAILER: Tron