'Tron: Ares' tops box office but falls short of expectations with $33.5 million debut

Disney's 'Tron: Ares' has had a rocky start, debuting with $60.5 million globally, which fell short of expectations. Despite the promotional efforts, the film struggled to attract audiences, especially in international markets. This underwhelming performance raises concerns about the future of the franchise and its ability to compete in a crowded cinematic landscape. Meanwhile, 'Demon Slayer – Infinity Castle' has made a significant impact, moving up to the fifth position worldwide in 2025, highlighting the shifting dynamics in box office success.

This weekend, Disney's 'Tron: Ares' opened to a disappointing $33.5 million domestically and $60.5 million globally, falling short of initial expectations of $40-$45 million domestically and $80-$90 million worldwide. The film's performance was impacted by competing events like an MLB playoff game and multiple NFL games, highlighting the challenges it faced at the box office. This underwhelming debut raises questions about the film's future and Disney's strategy for blockbuster releases.

Disney's latest sci-fi sequel, 'Tron: Ares', has had a rocky start at the box office, earning only $33.5 million during its debut weekend across 4,000 theaters in North America. This disappointing figure is particularly concerning given the film's hefty production budget of $180 million. The 'Tron' franchise, which has been around for nearly fifty years, has never been a major commercial success, and this latest installment seems to be following that trend. The lackluster performance raises questions about the future of the franchise and whether audiences are still interested in its unique blend of technology and storytelling.

The excitement around 'Tron: Ares' is palpable as it marks a significant return to the beloved franchise 43 years after the original film. This new installment not only brings back the iconic lightcycles but also draws inspiration from Joseph Kosinski's previously scrapped sequel to 'Tron: Legacy.' With Jared Leto portraying Ares, an intelligent program questioning his directives from CEO Julian Dillinger, the film promises to explore deeper themes of autonomy and rebellion. Fans are eager to see how this fresh narrative unfolds and connects to the rich history of the 'Tron' universe.

Disney's 'Tron: Ares' has made a notable entrance at the box office with a $14.3 million opening day, although it fell short of initial projections. This sci-fi sequel is expected to lead the weekend, but its performance raises questions about audience reception. Meanwhile, Channing Tatum's 'Roofman' is also making waves, securing a solid $3.2 million in its second week. The contrasting performances of these films highlight the competitive landscape of the current movie market.

Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert are not just dance partners; they're embarking on a beautiful journey together as they prepare to welcome their first child. Their relationship, which blossomed on the dance floor, is now evolving into a family life filled with love and anticipation. This news is heartwarming as it highlights the joys of love and partnership, especially during such a significant life event.

This week brings exciting entertainment with the release of 'Tron: Ares', a sequel to the iconic 1980s sci-fi film, featuring a score by Nine Inch Nails and Jared Leto as a cutting-edge AI. Additionally, Sally Wainwright introduces 'Riot Women', a fresh take on a rock band formed by middle-aged women. These releases are significant as they not only revive beloved franchises but also highlight diverse storytelling, appealing to both nostalgic fans and new audiences.

The latest installment in the beloved Tron franchise, 'Tron: Ares,' has kicked off with a promising $4.8 million in Thursday previews. This sci-fi sequel is projected to earn around $45 million over the weekend, surpassing other new releases. Its strong start highlights the enduring appeal of the franchise, which, while not a commercial giant, has cultivated a dedicated fanbase over the decades.

In a significant development, Israeli hostage David Cunio is set to be released along with 19 others as part of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. This news comes as former President Trump arrives in Israel, drawing attention to the ongoing situation. Cunio, who was kidnapped during the Hamas attacks, has been highlighted in the documentary 'A Letter To David.' His release, alongside his brother Ariel, brings hope to families affected by the conflict and underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in the region.

Stanley Tucci is set to lead the cast of 'Masterplan,' an exciting international heist movie directed by Thomas Vincent, known for 'Reacher.' This film, which also stars Simona Tabasco and Victor Belmondo, is significant as it marks Prime Video's first original production in French and Italian. Filming has just begun in picturesque locations across France and Italy, promising a thrilling cinematic experience that showcases the talents of its star-studded cast.

Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a two-time Academy Award winner, has joined as executive producer for the short film 'Don't Be Late, Myra,' directed by Afia Nathaniel. This collaboration is significant as the film has already qualified for the Oscars after a successful festival run, highlighting the importance of Pakistani narratives in cinema. Obaid-Chinoy's involvement is expected to elevate the film's visibility as it competes for recognition at the 98th Academy Awards.

A biopic about the life of Nobel Prize-winning philosopher Bertrand Russell is in the works, with Amanda Curdt-Christiansen set to write the script. This film is significant as it will be the first theatrical portrayal of Russell, who is celebrated for his contributions to humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought. His life, which spanned nearly a century, offers a rich narrative that can inspire and educate audiences about the importance of philosophy in understanding our world.

ITV Studios is making waves at MIPCOM Cannes with a series of exciting format deals, including the Spanish launch of 'A Party to Die For' and the fiftieth territory for 'Come Dine With Me'. The revival of the Fox Reality show 'Solitary' adds to their impressive catalog. This expansion not only showcases ITV's growing influence in the global market but also highlights the increasing demand for diverse reality formats, making it a significant moment for the company and its partners.

Channel 4 is set to release a documentary titled 'Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator,' which will analyze a verified sample of Adolf Hitler's DNA. Produced by Blink Films, this documentary promises to deliver surprising results and is expected to spark controversy due to its sensitive subject matter. The exploration of Hitler's genetic material could provide insights into historical narratives and the implications of genetic research on historical figures, making it a significant topic for both history enthusiasts and the general public.