Jared Leto employed his well-known immersive Jared Leto method acting techniques during the filming of Tron: Ares, director Joachim Rønning confirmed ahead of the film’s October 10 release. Leto plays Ares, a computer program experiencing reality for the first time, bringing his characteristic physical and psychological dedication to the role.
Jared Leto’s Commitment to Role Preparation
Jared Leto’s approach to method acting has long been recognized for its rigor and sometimes extreme nature. Over the years, he has committed fully to embodying his characters, notably altering his body weight dramatically. For Mark David Chapman in Chapter 27, Leto gained 67 pounds, a transformation that even resulted in serious health consequences like gout. In contrast, for the Oscar-winning role in Dallas Buyers Club, he lost 30 pounds and maintained his character’s mindset throughout the entire production period.
Leto’s unconventional performance style is well documented in public anecdotes, especially during Suicide Squad. Numerous accounts reveal that he engaged in unusual, even eccentric, on-set behavior, such as gifting Margot Robbie a live rat that she ultimately kept as a pet. Stories also surfaced about Leto sending odd gifts, like used condoms and anal beads, to co-stars, though he has been less explicit when recounting these incidents himself.
Director Joachim Rønning on Leto’s Immersive Acting Approach
In an interview with Liam Crowley for ScreenRant, Joachim Rønning shared insight into how Leto fully submerged himself into the character of Ares, confirming the actor’s trademark method acting was at play:
“I would say yes to that. And I know he’s a little wary about talking about his [process], I would say it’s his method. It’s like, yes, he’s in character for the most part when we did this film, but that’s great. Honestly for me as a director, whatever works, I think he’s one of the best actors in the world.” – Joachim Rønning, director
Rønning also explained the unique dynamic on set where team members addressed Leto by his character’s name:
“Whatever works for him works for me and then some. But yeah, I do address him as Ares when we’re filming and everybody goes, we get a little bit up. He’s the general walking onto set, which is fine. And it’s not uncommon for actors to do it like that. And it works for him. And I think you can feel it in any movie he makes. He’s completely into the character.” – Joachim Rønning, director
Unusual Filming Approach Enhances Character Development
The production of Tron: Ares followed a rare chronological shooting schedule, which significantly influenced Leto’s evolving portrayal. Rønning noted how this sequence allowed the actor to experience growth alongside his character’s journey into understanding humanity:
“And it’s interesting how when we filmed, we started with Ares. We actually shot the film very chronological, which is rare when you make a big movie like this. So it was interesting to see his character evolve into a more curious character and kind of like a sponge coming into the real world and learning and what it means to be human and all of that. So I think I had a wonderful time working with him and it was amazing.” – Joachim Rønning, director
Filming in this manner helped bring authenticity and depth to Leto’s assessment of Ares as a character discovering existence for the first time.
How Leto’s Immersive Style Shapes Tron: Ares
Jared Leto’s unwavering dedication to his Jared Leto method acting style appears to have found a supported space within Rønning’s direction. The filmmaker likened the character of Ares to Pinocchio, describing the program’s desire to become human and how the story invites viewers to see the world through fresh, almost infant-like eyes.
“Ares wants to be a real boy. We talked a lot about him almost being an infant, discovering the world for the first time, and how we wanted the audience to see the world through his eyes.” – Joachim Rønning, director
Though Leto’s particular methods remain somewhat guarded due to his hesitance to discuss his process openly, the on-set atmosphere embraced his full immersion, which included adopting the role’s persona far beyond typical boundaries.
Jeff Bridges, reprising his role as Flynn, openly spoke about his interactions with Leto and adjusting to his co-star’s commitment to character. At a 2025 Comic-Con panel, Bridges discussed his experience with Leto’s request to be addressed by his character’s name:
“I didn’t want to offend him as a thespo. But I thought, ‘I wanted to have a certain intimacy with you. I know your name is Ares. Can I just call you Air?’ He said, ‘Yeah man! You can call me whatever you want!’ We had a great time.” – Jeff Bridges, actor
The acceptance of Leto’s immersive demands by fellow cast members like Bridges illustrates a level of respect for the actor’s dedication, which may enhance the film’s dynamic.
Reflections on Leto’s Method Acting Legacy and Impact on Tron: Ares
Jared Leto’s Jared Leto method acting is renowned for both its brilliance and its controversies. His transformative performance in Dallas Buyers Club earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award, showcasing the potential benefits of his intense immersion. However, other roles, such as his portrayal of the Joker, met with widespread criticism, demonstrating that such dedication does not guarantee success.
The announcement of Leto as the lead in Tron: Ares already generated mixed responses prior to release. If his performance resonates as effectively as in past successes, the film could gain strong positive traction. Conversely, if it falters, past controversies may overshadow the project. Ultimately, audiences will be the judge when Tron: Ares arrives in theaters.
Principal Cast of Tron: Ares
- Jared Leto as Ares
- Greta Lee as Eve Kim
- Evan Peters as Julian Dillinger
- Hasan Minhaj as Ajay Patel
