TRON: LEGACY/TRON: THE ORIGINAL CLASSIC
Release date: April 5, 2011
Blu-ray version (some materials may not appear on the DVD version)

I still remember first learning about “Tron,” probably playing on my Apple II+ at the time, and the news said that “Tron” would be utilizing extensive computer technology in the new film and I was so excited. This was long before realistic worlds were being created with CGI, and while entertaining to watch from an historical perspective today, “Tron” certainly was groundbreaking in its own right.

Who would’ve thought that 28 years later, a sequel would be released, but this time taking full advantage of today’s technology. Now, Disney has released both the original and the new “Tron: Legacy” in a Blu-ray combo package.

Appropriately, “Tron: Legacy” utilizes new technology in one of its bonus features. The Disney Second Screen, which I’m a gigantic fan of, offers a new level of interactivity and actually controls the Blu-ray. More about that later.

Here’s what you’ll find on the “Tron: Legacy” combo Blu-ray:

THE NEXT DAY: FLYNN LIVES REVEALED. In this entertaining mockumentary which bridges the gap between “Tron” and “Tron: Legacy,” the “Flynn Lives” underground movement is explored. This featurettes goes back in time to discover the origins of “Flynn Lives.” It continues with its history right through “the next day” after Sam decides to take over Encom.

FIRST LOOK AT TRON: UPRISING, THE DISNEY XD ANIMATED SERIES (1:14) is basically a commercial for the new animated prequel series. There’s no shortage of light cycles, which was always my favorite part of “Tron,” and the animation is quite beautiful, beyond typical animated television series.

LAUNCHING THE LEGACY (10:20) is a fascinating piece with members of the production team, and explores what went in to taking the original film and bringing it into a faithful sequel. This has great footage and comments from the team, including the film’s original star Jeff Bridges, who played an integral role in bringing “Tron: Legacy” to realization. I particularly enjoyed hearing the story of how they created an early trailer (included) to see what fans would think of a new “Tron” film, which would be dependent on whether or not production would move forward.

VISUALIZING TRON (11:46) is one of those types of bonus features I’m always hoping for. This brings you though the creation process of the world of Tron with cast and crew. Interestingly, in this digital world we live in, fewer and fewer sets are being created, with computerized worlds created instead. Impressively, in an effort to keep everything as realist as possible, many actual sets were created for this film. There’s also a look at the development of the very unique illuminating costumes. Although just short of twelve minutes, there’s plenty packed into this segment.

INSTALLING THE CAST (12:04) obviously focuses on the performers in the film, explaining how they were cast, but with some fun anecdotes from the actors and glimpses at the camaraderie. There’s also plenty of great behind-the-scenes footage as well.

DISC ROARS (3:00) is actual footage from ComicCon in which the “Tron” team got the audience involved. With technicians on-hand, the convention audience actually participated in an element that would be in the final film. A very creative decision to include this unique piece as a bonus feature. Kudos, Disney!

There’s a very high-tech far music video MUSIC VIDEO “DEREZZED,” WRITTEN, PRODUCED AND PERFORMED BY DAFT PUNK, which takes place within an Encom video game.

DISNEY SECOND SCREEN: This Blu-ray already gets a thumbs up from me in the area of bonus features, but then there’s the real “Tron: Legacy” jewel. Disney Second Screen. Click here for more info about Disney Second Screen.


The “Tron: Classic” BONUS FEATURES include:

AUDIO COMMENTARY

THE TRON PHENOMENON (9:45) features cast and crew of both “Tron” and “Tron: Legacy” to reflect on the technology and the impact it had on the public and future filmmakers, despite the fact that it was less than successful at the box office.

PHOTO TRONOLOGY (16:37) is a very different sort of bonus feature. I think the creativity pays off with this one, and I found it fascinating! Steven Lisberger who wrote and directed the original “Tron,” along with his son, visits the Walt Disney Archives to discover and reminisce over rare photos, cast member head shots and production photos along with other original production materials.

Additionally there are HOURS of ORIGINAL DVD FEATURES from a previous DVD release. Just some of these include:

Scenes with alternate music, early video tests, vintage interviews, deleted scenes and much more.

Hope this helped take a byte out of what’s on the “TRON: LEGACY/TRON: THE ORIGINAL CLASSIC Blu-ray!