While "Deep Impact" strives for the heart, "Armageddon" goes for the jugular. If you can get past the basic plot -- an oil-drilling crew led by Bruce Willis will be trained for space travel, then rocket up to drill into the asteroid, then deposit a nuke and destroy it -- then you'll be hooked.

Along with Willis for the ride is Ben Affleck, the rebellious newcomer, Steve Buscemi as the comic relief, and a host of other rugged "Roughnecks" who could just as well be dubbed "The Wrong Stuff." (But what better way to sympathize with our superheroes then make them ordinary Joes; what is Bruce Willis with his grizzly stubble and pot belly but a glorified plumber.)

While Willis and his gang are busy dealing with NASA shuttle crews, a messed-up Russian space station (read MIR), and the Hellish surface of the hurling comet, at home, Billy Bob Thornton's NASA chief monitors their exploits, while Liv Tyler, daughter of Willis, love of Affleck, looks on with teary eyes.

Through all the shock cuts and loud music, "Armageddon" also shows it has feelings, too. Still, these stories of love and family feel more like props and plot-devices, getting played out against the flashy backdrops of waving American flags and the true core of the movie -- exploding asteroids. Director Michael Bay ("The Rock") knows the purpose of a summer bonanza like this. Never distract from the action. And always keep it moving. Problem is, it's so fast and furious, it'll leave you dizzy.