The Major Problem: The Questioningly Ambiguous Ending
While I pointed out earlier that the future for the Riddick franchise is possible, that's all it really is in the end.
Possible. The ending of
Riddick was an excellent wrap-up to the film, leaving the Johns subplot tied up and yet another grand escape for Riddick away from death and mercenaries. But is that all it was in the end? Before the credits roll, we're greeted with one final encounter between Riddick and Johns, via two separate ships as they each depart ways. Riddick calls Johns out on his loyalty towards his duty, holding him in higher regards over his son from
Pitch Black. Afterwards, both men depart into space, with Johns heading back to civilization, and Riddick heading towards... where? It's never clearly explained where Riddick intended to go after the events of of the film. Is he continuing his objective of finding Furya nad being at peace? Is he looking to start anew somewhere far off in the universe? Or is he planning on striking back at Vaako and the Necromongers, not wanting to retake the throne but wipe them all out instead? The ending just leaves things out in the open too much, making us question where will it go in the future without any evident proof that there
is a future. There should have been a small indicator of where Riddick was heading next to keep the fans in high hopes that there would be another adventure in this amazing universe. But, alas, there was not, and it leaves things not open-ended, but questioningly ambiguous as to what the hell will happen next, whether it's in another 10 years or so. With all the great things there are to say about
Riddick, there is that ending that is way too abrupt. The film does go by in a heartbeat, primarily because it's so involving in its narrative and pacing. But the way it closes the curtain leaves much to be desired. So there you have it. The year of 2013 has offered up yet another captivating film for fans and critics alike to dig into, with flaws, yes, but also with a clear understanding that the past hasn't been forgotten just yet, and that science fiction still has the potential to bring scale and focus to the game. What do you guys think? Are there other elements you thought stuck out more? Are there some that didn't suit too well? Feel free to discuss your opinions on the matter. Feedback helps in so many ways.