Jeff Bridges Defends ‘Tron: Ares’ After Box Office Dip, Says “Things Can Grow On You”

Hollywood veteran Jeff Bridges has responded to early box office reactions surrounding Tron: Ares, the latest installment in Disney’s long-running sci-fi franchise. The film, which hit theaters on October 10, 2025, recorded a $33.5 million U.S. opening and a $60.5 million global debut. While the numbers fell short of initial projections, Bridges maintains that early box office figures don’t always define a film’s legacy.

The actor, known for his roles in The Big Lebowski and Crazy Heart, returned to portray Kevin Flynn, a character he first played in the original 1982 Tron. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Bridges reflected on how critical and audience perceptions of movies often evolve over time, pointing out that some films initially labeled as flops later gain cult or critical acclaim.

Box Office Context and Projections

Tron: Ares was expected to open between $40 million and $45 million domestically and $80 million to $90 million worldwide, according to early industry forecasts. Despite falling below those numbers, Disney insiders remain optimistic about the film’s long-term prospects through streaming and international markets.

According to Deadline, the film’s production budget reached $220 million, with marketing and distribution adding substantially to overall costs. Should the film’s global earnings stall at around $160 million, analysts predict potential losses nearing $132 million after ancillary revenues are factored in.

The third film in the Tron series follows Tron: Legacy (2010) and brings back the digital world known as “the Grid” with cutting-edge visual effects and a darker narrative. Alongside Jeff Bridges, the ensemble cast includes Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Evan Peters, Jodie Turner-Smith, Hasan Minhaj, Arturo Castro, and Gillian Anderson.

Jeff Bridges’ Perspective: “Movies Can Grow On You”

In his remarks, Jeff Bridges highlighted that a film’s initial reception doesn’t always reflect its long-term cultural value.

“It’s interesting how movies are received at opening weekend,” Bridges said. “I remember Heaven’s Gate was considered very disappointing or a flop, but nowadays it’s considered kind of a masterpiece.”

He further added that his own viewing habits have changed with time:

“Often, I don’t like a movie at first. Then months later, I’ll see it again and realize I missed something. As the Dude would say, ‘That’s just like your opinion, man.’”

Bridges’ reference to Heaven’s Gate—a 1980 epic that bombed commercially but gained critical respect decades later—underscored his belief that audience tastes and artistic appreciation can evolve.

How Perception Shapes Legacy

Film analysts argue that Tron: Ares could follow a similar path to other once-underappreciated blockbusters such as Blade Runner 2049 and Dune, which later gained recognition through digital platforms and home streaming.

Experts note that modern audiences consume films over longer windows, especially with the expansion of streaming services like Disney+. This allows films that underperform in theaters to gradually find broader appreciation.

Bridges’ comments also highlight a shift in how success is measured in Hollywood. The focus is no longer just on opening-weekend numbers, but on long-term engagement, franchise potential, and cultural impact.

What’s Next for ‘Tron: Ares’ and Jeff Bridges

Disney is set to release updated box office and streaming data in early November, with executives reportedly monitoring audience response in Asian and European markets.

If Tron: Ares shows sustained interest on digital platforms, insiders suggest it could lay the groundwork for a fourth installment or a potential Disney+ spinoff series exploring new storylines within the Tron universe.

Meanwhile, Jeff Bridges continues to promote the film while working on upcoming projects, including an untitled drama series and a rumored return to directing.