Disney's TRON 3 Vancouver shoot shuts down due to strike action

Production on Disney's TRON: Ares has ground to a halt in Vancouver due to the ongoing strike action, laying off 150 crew members.

Joachim Rønning, who is at the helm of the threequel, took to Instagram on Tuesday (August 15) to announce the production has shut down.

Posting alongside a carousel of on-set images from previous productions, Ronning began his caption by acknowledging the creative craft and talent, before providing an update on Tron 3's production status.

"The absolute best moments of my career have been watching an actor perform in front of the camera – taking the scene and the text to a higher place. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with amazing talent. It’s a huge part of why I’m a filmmaker. However, like myself, being an actor or a writer, means you’re a freelancer. And I can tell you, the constant uncertainty is not for everyone. To that end I don't think it's unreasonable to ask for a better safety net," he began.

Rønning added: "Many of my best friends are writers. Everything starts with the story. Everything starts with you. That must continue. And that means that AI needs to be regulated. There is no doubt about the threat the technology poses to all creatives."

He then revealed that filming on Tron: Ares has been halted and highlighted the number of crew that have been laid off as a result of the actors strike in Hollywood. 
 
"Today was supposed to be our first day of principal photography on TRON: ARES (a movie subsequently about AI and what it means, and takes, to be human). Instead, we are shut down with over a hundred and fifty people laid off. It’s indefinite, which makes it exponentially harder for everyone.
 
"The AMPTP, SAG-AFTRA and WGA need to not leave the table until it’s done. This is Hollywood. We close deals for breakfast. Why do we suddenly have all the time in the world when every day is so precious? These tactics are extremely frustrating. It’s time for diplomacy so we can get back to work – under conditions that are fair to everybody."

The third instalment of the science-fiction action series was announced earlier in May.

The TRON: Ares summary posted to Production List reads: "Serving as a continuation of the beloved TRON: Legacy, this sequel delves deeper into Ares’ narrative, offering fans a unique and immersive experience within the Tron universe. With cutting-edge visuals, mesmerizing action sequences, and a compelling exploration of Ares’ journey, this film promises to be a thrilling addition to the iconic Tron franchise."

Rønning directs from a screenplay co-written by Steven Lisberger, Bonnie MacBird and Jesse Wigutow. 

The Little Mermaid (2023)'s Russell Allen is executive producing, with Leto, Emma Ludbrook, Jeffrey Silver and Justin Springer producing under the Paradox banner for Walt Disney Studios.