Should be a part of every Sci-Fi collection

Rating: 8/10 (19 October 2010)

I love this movie. I agree with some other comments that this is simply a tried and true story, but it's done very well. Lighting is fun, especially in the beginning with the use of the blue/yellow suns, and of course the Predator-esquire look through Riddick's eyes, or the aliens' eyes once in awhile adds to the life of the movie. Special effects aren't mind blowing, but they do suffice nicely. Vin Diesel isn't a great actor, but unlike most other muscular bad-boy types, he's not terrible either, and he plays his character pretty well.
Overall, the only thing the plot really lacks is some extra development. Characters have lots of different personalities, but I think I could stand to see more of their quirks, so that I became a touch more invested in them before they all die off. I also think its too convenient that the same day they are hit by a rogue comet they also experience a once every 22 year event. I would have really enjoyed another 30-45 minutes of movie developing a short stay on the planet, maybe covering a week or so before the eclipse starts.
Overall, watch or buy this movie. It's by no means a classic, but it's an excellent film, and it's not the type of movie that after you see it once, you don't care to see it again.