I saw TRON Legacy last night and I still see some of the scenes in my head. I guess I’m an 80s child.
For some much needed perspective, check the Lightbikes scene from the original TRON (1982). I’ve played Snake a few times but it is far from my favorite retro game. I’ve always preferred the tactical games and fantasy RPG’s that came out in the 90s. Yet, watching this scene makes for some Snake on steroids fun.
Now compare it to the modern take. Frankly, the lightbike scene is not even close to being an effective adrenaline rush. Same as modern games, it’s not about player skill anymore. It’s about effects. Which is saying a LOT about how games have changed. Instead of games of reflex like Pong and Snake, kids nowadays play Assassin’s creed and WoW – button mashing which rarely makes a big difference.
Back to the movie. This time around we get an improved story and somewhat better acting, courtesy of Jeff Bridges. Olivia Wilde is very easy on the eyes. The main character can be anyone from the audience, which I guess is the idea.
Verdict: Watch the movie but keep in mind it will PLAY a lot better as a video game!
I did not see the new Tron but am a big fan of the original. One of my favorite jokes is from the brilliant Tina Fey on 30 Rock, in an episode from season 4, where she jokes about being in “Tron” when she’s under a blacklight at a nightclub. The link is below:
http://annebanan.tumblr.com/post/335579374/liz-look-at-me-in-the-black-light-its-tron