Outline:
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The beginning of new DVD and Blu-ray releases for 2026 is not going as smoothly as expected. Several films have already hit the market, but many are struggling to gain traction with audiences and critics alike.
“Tron: Ares” – A Disappointing Sequel
“Tron: Ares” received a grade of D+ from reviewers, highlighting several major flaws. The film lacks a coherent plot, has painfully stilted acting, and features an editing style that seems chaotic and unpolished. The only redeeming quality appears to be the visually stunning computer-generated world, which is filled with explosive colors.
The story itself is described as being written in binary code, making it difficult to follow. Even the writers, primarily Jesse Wigutow, seem to struggle with the thin plot, allowing storylines to become convoluted and nonsensical. The main theme of greed is overshadowed by more confusing elements, such as the character Ares having a Pinocchio complex and wanting to live a normal life in the real world.
This film also repeats the mistakes of its predecessor, “Tron: Legacy,” which was criticized for weak writing and characters. As with any potential blockbuster, “Tron: Ares” was intended to set up future films. However, given its shortcomings, some believe it should be pulled from the market before it causes further damage.
“The Smashing Machine” – A Missed Opportunity
“The Smashing Machine” received a grade of C-, indicating that it fell short of expectations. The film explores 13 years in the life of Mark Kerr, a fighter played by Dwayne Johnson, who found success in Japan’s MMA circuit. His career was marked by brutal fights and eventual addiction to painkillers. Despite the efforts of his wife, Dawn Staples (Emily Blunt), Kerr battles alone.
Director Benny Safdie attempts to bring cinematic flair to the story, but his inexperience as both a director and writer hinders the film’s impact. The script avoids key moments, and the direction feels amateurish, leaving the production feeling like it missed its mark.
New Releases on DVD and Blu-ray
Several other titles have been released or are scheduled for release in early 2026:
- “Outlaws & Lawmen: 10 TV Westerns Collection”: This DVD collection includes multiple films featuring Tom Selleck and Sam Elliot, along with four classic adaptations of Louis L’Amour novels.
- “Shelby Oaks”: A woman searches for her long-lost sister, only to become obsessed with the idea that a childhood imaginary demon might be real.
- “It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley”: This film by Amy Berg delves into the tragic life of Jeff Buckley, a talented singer-songwriter whose career was cut short at age 30.
- “Icefall”: A game warden arrests a poacher and uncovers a mystery involving a plane carrying millions of dollars.
- “The Senior”: Michael Chiklis plays a 59-year-old man who returns to college to play football.
Available on Digital Platforms
Some films are available on digital platforms, including:
- “Predator: Badlands”: This film follows Dek (Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi) and Thia (Elle Fanning) as they form an unlikely alliance. It will be released on DVD and Blu-ray on Feb. 17.
- “Homegrown”: Directed by Michael Premo, this film explores battleground communities and key flashpoints of national tension, showcasing the lived experiences of individuals on the front lines of America’s political divide.
- “Roads of Fire”: This film offers a look into the $35 billion human-smuggling trade, following three intersecting storylines.