Disney’s New Sci-Fi Film Faces $132M+ Loss at Box Office
Disney’s latest sci-fi blockbuster, Tron: Ares, is facing major losses at the box office, according to sources speaking with Deadline.
The third installment in the Tron franchise reportedly cost $220 million to produce, higher than the previously reported $170-$180 million. With a global gross currently around $160 million, the film could end up losing roughly $132.7 million.
The film, starring Jared Leto, Greta Lee, and Jeff Bridges, has earned $103 million worldwide through its second weekend, with domestic earnings dropping 67% to $11.1 million in its second weekend.
The movie’s revenue from theaters, home entertainment, television, and airlines totals about $214.8 million, still well below its combined production and promotional costs of $347.5 million.
An insider told Deadline, “There was no specific vision, to be honest. The idea that Disney would spend a quarter of a billion dollars on a Jared Leto film that is a franchise that hasn’t worked in four decades is insane.”
This October, they are coming to our world.
— Walt Disney Studios (@DisneyStudios) July 17, 2025
Watch the brand-new trailer for Tron: Ares and experience it in theaters, filmed for IMAX, October 10. pic.twitter.com/a2z8Pnn3Ei
Tron: Ares, directed by Joachim Rønning, had a troubled path to the screen. Originally intended as a direct sequel to 2010’s Tron: Legacy with director Joseph Kosinski returning, the project shifted direction under Disney’s guidance. Rønning reportedly wanted a different script than the one by Jesse Wigutow that Disney approved. Eventually, Billy Ray, known for Captain Phillips, was brought in to adjust the script during a short reshoot period.
Critics and analysts say the film’s main problem was its story. Despite the franchise’s cult status, Tron has always struggled to attract a broad audience.
The original 1980s films and the 2010 sequel had moderate success, but Tron: Ares failed to capture a large enough audience, even with big set pieces like San Diego Comic-Con stunts, a Nine Inch Nails laser-light concert in Los Angeles, and touring light cycles.
Moviegoers gave Tron: Ares the same CinemaScore as the previous film, a B+, and a 57% “definite recommend” score on Screen Engine/Comscore PostTrak.
Audience analysis showed the film drew mostly older fans, with 70% over the age of 25. However, the film struggled to attract younger viewers, with only 6% of 13-17-year-olds attending screenings.
“The franchise is dead,” a source said after the disappointing opening weekend. However, others close to the project argue the film still serves as a promotion for Disney’s theme park Tron rides, which remain popular in Shanghai and Orlando.
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