'Tron Legacy' first out of the gate to confirm Comic-Con 2010

Jeff Bridges of 'Tron Legacy"

Credit: Disney

In an announcement that surprised no one, Walt Disney Studios confirmed today that "Tron Legacy" will have a significant presence at this year's Comic-Con International 2010.  

Oscar winner Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde, Michael Sheen and Bruce Boxleitner will join the filmmakers in a Hall H panel that will kick off the con on Thursday, July 21 at 11:15 AM.  The studio promises that footage from the December release will be previewed in 3-D as well as some "special surprise guests."  It's worth noting, notoriously press-shy Daft Punk have provided an original score for "Legacy."

The annual San Diego pop culture event has already featured "Legacy' twice before, including a surprise screening of a concept test the filmmakers used to convince the studio to greenlight a sequel to the original 1984 film back in July of 2008.  In fact, director Joe Kosinski, producers Sean Bailey and Steven Lisbeger have all gone on record that the reaction to the footage at Comic-Con from the fans in attendance sealed the deal.  

Last year, Bridges, Hedlund, Wilde, Kosinski and Lisberger hosted a packed panel, but had no new footage to show as the picture was still in production.  Additionally, Disney created a wealth of buzz by re-creating the fictional Flynn's Arcade from the franchise with 1980s video games and a secret room which revealed a real-life model of the new lightcycle from the film.  You can check out photos of the cycle here.

The studio also announced there will be an interactive "Tron" booth on the convention floor with a sneak peek at merchandise including toys, electronics, collectibles, apparel and the new "Tron: Evolution" video game.  Exclusive Comic-Con products are also promised.

"Tron Legacy" opens nationwide and on IMAX Dec. 17, 2010.  Look for complete Comic-Con coverage on HitFix beginning next month.