Disney’s sci-fi sequel “ Tron: Ares ” failed to connect in its box office debut, collecting a disappointing $33.5 million from 4,000 North American theaters over the weekend.

It’s a weak start, even for a five-decade old franchise that’s never been a commercial juggernaut. The trouble is that “Tron: Are” carries a massive $180 million price tag, not including the many millions the studio spent on marketing. Overseas, “Tron: Ares” didn’t make up much ground, adding another $27 million and putting the final global number at $60 million through Sunday.

Heading into the weekend, “Tron Ares” was targeting a decent domestic debut of $45 million to $50 million. Despite a “B+” grade on CinemaScore exit polls, the action adventure wasn’t able to expand its audience beyond its target demograph

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