4K Digital Review of TRON (1982)

 

Back in 1982, personal computers were not even a thought for the average household. Computer animation was not a thing. We were still years away from the internet. Artificial Intelligence (AI) was unknown to the masses. TRON debuted in theaters and it wasn't just a film ahead of its time, it was the start of a revolution. A film meant to push the boundaries of animation, has influenced just about everything that we know today. It has pioneered computer graphics in movies, pushed music and computer interfaces.

TRON focuses on Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), a brilliant programmer at ENCOM. Flynn's rival Edward Dillinger (David Warner), stole two of his best video game programs and used them to move up the ranks of ENCOM. Determined to find evidence that Dillinger stole his work, Flynn wants to hack into the company's Master Control Program (MCP). With the help of his ENCOM employee/friends Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) and Lora Baines (Cindy Morgan), Flynn gains access to ENCOM. While trying to hack into the system, the MCP uses a laser to transport Flynn into the virtual world of its system. Flynn discovers a world that only serves the MCP. Alan Bradley has created a security program he calls TRON who helps Flynn fight the MCP and hopefully return Flynn back to the human world.

Video:

The 4K streaming video is sourced from a brand-new restoration and remaster from the film's original negatives. TRON has never looked better. The video is extremely crisp and sharp. The glow of the red and blue hues in the digital world are impressive.  Blacks are inky and silky. Facial expressions are clean and accurate. A showcase quality restoration from the amazing team at Disney.

Audio:

The streaming Dolby Atmos soundtrack is superb to match the restored video quality. While mostly front channel heavy for most of the movie, the surround channels come in during the digital world. The sound field is enveloping and immersive especially during the games and the final act. Vocals are crystal clear throughout the movie. Another wonderful audio track from Disney.

Bonus Features:

• The TRON Phenomenon (HD – 9:45)
• Photo TRONology (HD – 16:37)
• Original DVD Features
• Development
  • “Computers Are People Too” (SD – 4:28)
• Digital Imagery
  • Digital Imagery in TRON (SD – 3:44)
  • “Beyond TRON” (SD – 4:00)
• The Making of TRON (SD – 88:21)
• Publicity
• Trailer #4 (SD – 1:34)

Conclusion:

TRON has never looked and sounded better. Reference-quality video and a very engaging soundtrack brings this 1982 movie to renewed life. Some good supplements that have been out before. This is a highly recommended addition to your movie library.

TRON is available on digital, Blu-ray and 4K UHD now. 

*The movie was supplied by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*