Tron

"Tron" is a science fiction film that takes place in two distinct worlds: the real world and a digital realm known as the Grid. In the real world, Kevin Flynn is a talented computer programmer who used to work for ENCOM, a powerful software company. However, he was unfairly ousted by a scheming executive, Ed Dillinger, who stole Flynn's video game creations and claimed them as his own.

Determined to prove his ownership of the games, Flynn attempts to hack into ENCOM's mainframe to find evidence of Dillinger's theft. With the help of Alan Bradley, another programmer and friend, and Alan's love interest, Dr. Lora Baines, they attempt to access the system, which is protected by a powerful artificial intelligence known as the Master Control Program (MCP).

Unbeknownst to them, the MCP has become self-aware and seeks to expand its power and control beyond the digital realm. The MCP thwarts Flynn's attempt to access the system, digitizing him and transporting him into the Grid. Inside the Grid, Flynn finds himself in a stunning and dangerous digital landscape, where computer programs have taken humanoid forms. The MCP rules over the Grid with an iron fist, oppressing the programs and imposing its will upon them. It has also captured and enslaved several programs, including Tron, a security program created by Alan. Flynn teams up with Tron and a fearless warrior named Yori to navigate the treacherous Grid and defeat the MCP.

"Tron" raises existential questions about the nature of identity and reality: Flynn's digitization blurs the lines between the physical and digital realms, forcing him to confront his own existence as a being that now exists in both worlds. The film also serves as a visionary work that explores the potential of computer technology and visual storytelling, whose usage of computer-generated imagery and innovative special effects was ahead of its time and lays the groundwork for future advancements in visual effects in the film industry.

Release: 1982

Stars: Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, David Warner

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 72%