A beat-up Riddick (Vin Diesel) awakens on a desolate planet, left for dead. Who did this to him? In flashbacks, we learn that it was a few of the Necromongers, the people he once ruled. Well, back to square one, which isn't so bad since he was never comfortable in the leadership role. He was bored and lost his edge. Now, fighting for survival like ROBINSON CRUSOE ON MARS, he has to get his instinct back. The first thing that attacks him are these huge dog/tiger-like animals. Soon after, he comes across a cub whose mother is dead--and raises it, sort of like a pet. This is when he comes across the worst threat, these large scorpion-like aliens that thrive in water. When a massive storm begins and approaches he believes these monsters will be coming with it. So when he comes across a lone building he activates the emergency beacon. Of course, this will attract mercenaries who want the bounty placed on his head, but it's also a way for him to get off the planet.
Two very different groups show up. One of them has very direct ties to a character in the first movie, PITCH BLACK. They all have to survive when the storm--and hundreds of those creatures--strike. Riddick is their best chance for survival.
A lot of people are comparing this to the first movie, saying it's basically a remake of it--but this is a completely different story and scenario. The only thing similar is that they are being attacked by alien animals and have to survive the night. This may be my favorite of the three Riddick movies. It's fast and fun. Highly recommended.