Tron
- scott kim
- Mar 24, 2024
- 1 min read
SYMMETRY. 180° rotation.
INSPIRATION. In the 1970s I was a big fan of the emerging field of computer graphics, and spent many memorable evenings watching demo reels at Information International courtesy Richard Taylor, who has gone on to a spectacular career in special effects. This was the early days, when computer graphics was just starting to appear in TV commercials. When TRON was in the works — the first feature film to include extensive computer animation — I drew this ambigram and sent it to Richard. (The original was monochorme; this version has been enhanced with the metallic effect of the film's logo.) My ambigram didn't make it into the movie, but it did appear on the special effects crew jackets and hats.
Tron's visual identity is a masterclass in bold, geometric design—the neon grids and sleek typography still influence modern digital aesthetics. For designers studying this kind of iconic style, it's interesting to see how contemporary tools can emulate that clean, futuristic look. While nothing replaces hand-crafted design, a curated tool comparison can save time when exploring different logo styles for personal projects. It's worth examining how the old-school digital vibe translates into today's branding workflows.
Wow! I definitely remember that Tron design! While I was working on the movie (only for a short time), I was in the props/effects department. I’d seen a few people wearing the hats (possibly, a shirt or jacket, too)!
I love all things related to optical illusions, so this sort of fit in with that. So, I tried to get one, but had no luck.
Over the years, I’ve tried to find some references to those items. Hoped to maybe find something on eBay or some such thing. Again, no such luck!
Well, at least now I know that I didn’t dream the whole thing (assuming I’m awake now)! ;-D
Still looking for one of those hats (or whatever), though.…