Jared Leto’s Method Acting Revealed for ‘Tron: Ares’

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Director Joachim Rønning confirmed that Jared Leto employed his famous method acting while filming the upcoming movie, ‘Tron: Ares,’ set to release on October 10, 2025. Leto’s unique acting style has garnered attention over the years for its intensity, often leading him to adopt extreme physical transformations.

Rønning shared insights during an interview with Liam Crowley for ScreenRant, where he emphasized Leto’s total immersion in character. ‘I would say yes to that. He’s in character for the most part when we did this film,’ Rønning said. He praised Leto as one of the best actors in the world and expressed appreciation for the depth he brought to the role of Ares, a computer program discovering reality.

Throughout his career, Leto has employed unconventional methods to prepare for roles, including gaining significant weight for ‘Chapter 27‘ and losing weight for his Oscar-winning role in ‘Dallas Buyers Club.’ His offbeat antics on set are well-known, including notable gestures like gifting Margot Robbie a live rat during the filming of ‘Suicide Squad.’

Rønning revealed that the production of ‘Tron: Ares’ followed a nearly chronological shooting schedule, allowing Leto’s character to evolve naturally. ‘It’s interesting how when we filmed, we started with Ares. We actually shot the film very chronologically, which is rare for a big movie like this,’ he noted. The director observed Leto’s character develop curiosity as he navigated the complexities of human experience.

Describing Leto’s portrayal, Rønning likened Ares to Pinocchio, stating that the character yearns to become ‘a real boy,’ echoing the journey of self-discovery. Actors on set adapted to Leto’s methods, with Rønning referring to him as Ares while filming.

Jeff Bridges, who co-stars as Flynn, also commented on Leto’s unique approach. During a 2025 Comic-Con panel, Bridges said, ‘I didn’t want to offend him as a thespo. I know your name is Ares. Can I just call you Air?’ Leto responded positively, showcasing the camaraderie on set.

While Leto’s commitment to his craft is evident, the effectiveness of his method acting in ‘Tron: Ares’ will only be determined upon the film’s release. His prior roles have been met with mixed responses, raising anticipation and curiosity about his upcoming performance.