For Disney’s upcoming film Tron: Ares, Jared Leto embraced his role through intense Method acting, remaining completely in character throughout the shoot. His dedication to portraying Ares involved staying in the mindset of his character both on and off the set, a commitment noted by various members of the production.
Director Reflects on Leto’s Commitment and Its Effect on Set Dynamics
Director Joachim Rønning shared how Leto’s approach impacted interactions on set. According to Rønning, the actor rarely spoke to other cast members outside of character, which some found intimidating but was deliberately part of his process. The director said that to connect with Leto, he often had to assume a role himself, treating Leto’s character as a commanding general figure.
“He would come on set and not talk to anyone, which to some cast members could be intimidating, but that’s what he wanted. That’s what he used, to play the character. When I spoke to him, I’d need to go into a role of some sort too. As Master Control, Leto’s Ares is like the general of the Grid, so I would treat him like that. When he’d come on to set we’d all straighten up a bit.”
—Joachim Rønning, Director
Leto’s Demand to Be Called by His Character’s Name Stood Out
As part of his method, Leto requested that the cast refer to him exclusively as Ares. This extended beyond typical on-set formality, creating an atmosphere where his identity as the character was prioritized during filming. Although most embraced this, it was not a rule universally observed.
Jeff Bridges Chooses to Defy the Name Rule, Keeping a Different Energy
Jeff Bridges, returning as Kevin Flynn, did not strictly follow Leto’s request to use only character names. With Flynn’s status as the pioneer who created the digital world in the story, Bridges felt a unique liberty on set. He chose to call Leto “Air” instead, a nickname that reflected a playful contrast to Leto’s intense immersion.
“Since I’m Flynn, who created that whole world, I figured that I could call him whatever I wanted to. I respected his desire to be called Ares, and not have to switch back and forth, but as Flynn I felt sort of special, so on set I called him ‘Air.’ Flynn’s above the whole thing.”
—Jeff Bridges, Actor
The Physicality of Leto’s Performance Was Shaped by His Heavy Costume
In addition to psychological immersion, Leto’s portrayal involved a grueling physical component. Wearing a cumbersome futuristic suit weighing 40 pounds, his movements and posture naturally adapted to the armor-like outfit, enhancing the character’s commanding presence.
“It’s hard not to be immersed when your suit weights 40 lb. That’ll put you right in the sweet spot. It was painful. But I loved it. I was always happy to be in that suit.”
—Jared Leto, Actor
“And that dictates the way you move, the way you hold your body, the way you walk. So a lot of the character was in the suit. You can’t put that suit on and not feel like a warrior from the future.”
—Jared Leto, Actor
Tron: Ares Explores Intersection of Digital and Real Worlds with New Characters
The film picks up years after Tron: Legacy and introduces a new storyline where Ares, a high-ranking digital program created by the Dillinger Corporation, crosses into the real world. This marks a pivotal moment that explores humanity’s first encounter with artificial intelligence outside the Grid. Besides Leto and Bridges, Tron: Ares features a cast including Greta Lee, Hasan Minhaj, Jodie Turner-Smith, Arturo Castro, and Cameron Monaghan.
Anticipation Builds as Fans Await Leto’s Intense Portrayal
Jared Leto’s extreme commitment to his role in Tron: Ares has set high expectations for his performance. Audiences will soon see if his immersive method acting translates into the gripping presence that his preparation promises. The film is scheduled for release on October 10, drawing attention for both its narrative and its unique approach to character portrayal.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Miley Cyrus date Jared Leto?
A. Jared Leto: February 2014 This is a bit odd, but Miley Cyrus and Jared Leto were allegedly dating after Miley’s breakup with Kellan. According to a source from Us Weekly, Miley spent the night at Jared’s house in Los Angeles in early February.
Q. Did Jared Leto date Taylor Swift?
A. They chatted in a nice and friendly way about music and Jared’s Globe win, but there was no romance between them, a source said. It’s disappointing because we thought they might have had chemistry and hoped they would sing together.
