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The Chronicles of Riddick

The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)

Jun 11, 2004 1h 59m Action Science Fiction

After years of outrunning ruthless bounty hunters, escaped convict Riddick suddenly finds himself caught between opposing forces in a fight for the future of the human race. Now, waging incredible battles on fantastic and deadly worlds, this lone, reluctant hero will emerge as humanity's champion - and the last hope for a universe on the edge of annihilation.

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Directed by David Twohy

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • David Twohy
Writer
  • David Twohy
Producer
  • Vin Diesel
  • Scott Kroopf

Reviews

markuspm

The movie could be about anything and I would like it. It is Vin Diesel!!

Dec 23, 2013

Gimly
6/10

It's hard for me to say that _The Chronicles of Riddick_ is **good**. Especially taking into the stunning origin it has in _Pitch Black_. But it tries really hard. It tries to be good, it tries to be original, it tries to appeal to so many disparate groups, it tries to go in a completely new direction. This trying mostly translates to failure, and I guess I can see that, but _Chronicles of Riddick_ still had such a massive impact on me, that I still have to recommend it.

_"Threshold! Take us to the Threshold!"_

_Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._

Sep 27, 2018

CinemaSerf
6/10

This is very much a vehicle for Vin Diesel to flex his muscles and engage in 2 hours of kick-ass adventure. The plot is pretty unimportant: "Riddick" arrives on a planet and is soon hired by Dame Judi Dench to go up against the brutal "Necromongers" - a sort of intergalactic cricket led by Colm Feore, who are hell bent on destroying humanity. After quite a long, slow, start it does not hang about; we have loads of decent special effects as he is double-crossed, imprisoned and ultimately joined with Karl Urban and Thandie Newton to take on the army of locust-like beasties. It's not the best of the "Riddick" films, but it has a good cast and a half-decent story to keep it off the rocks. Don't look for intellectual stimulation; just think - ice cream for the brain - and you will probably quite enjoy this. I did.

Sep 4, 2023

r96sk
7/10

<em>'The Chronicles of Riddick'</em> follows up <em>'Pitch Black'</em> in positive fashion. I think I prefer the story last time out, though this 2004 release is definitely an improvement in most other departments. The special effects have aged relatively better, while the acting is more sturdy.

Vin Diesel remains entertaining as the now titular character. Away from him, there are a fair number of other characters; almost, if not quite, too many. I wouldn't say any of the others onscreen left a noteworthy mark on my memory, though Colm Feore and Nick Chinlund do particularly well. Judi Dench appears too, interestingly.

Onwards to 2013's <em>'Riddick'</em>. Good to see Vin Diesel starring in inconsistently titled sequels isn't just limited to <em>'Fast & Furious'</em>... 😁

Apr 14, 2025

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Science Fiction film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Chronicles of Riddick distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director David Twohy brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Chronicles of Riddick took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $105.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2004, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Chronicles of Riddick shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Rage: Carrie 2, which focuses more on action than character development, The Chronicles of Riddick offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Titan A.E. and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy explore similar territory, The Chronicles of Riddick stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 11, 2004
  • Runtime: 1h 59m
  • Budget: $105,000,000
  • Revenue: $115,772,733

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