Watch Cocoon: The Return

Cocoon: The Return is a 1988 science-fiction film and a sequel to the 1985 film Cocoon. Despite the gap between both movies, the main cast of the original film returns, including Don Ameche, Wilford Brimley, and Steve Guttenberg. Although the plot revolves around the same set of characters, the film can be watched as a standalone movie. The sequel is directed by Daniel Petrie and written by Stephen McPherson.

The story starts some years after the events in the first Cocoon film. The group of senior citizens that found the alien pods in the Antartica Peninsula discovers that they are traveling to earth again to rescue the 20 cocoons that were left behind on their last visit. The pods contain the life source of a race of friendly beings from planet Antarea who rejuvenated the seniors, providing them with a new lease of life.

One of the prominent characters of the movie, Arthur (Don Ameche), senses their presence and, together with his friends, decides to undertake a journey to locate the cocoons before the government can take control over them. Meanwhile, it's revealed that the aliens need the cocoons to protect their offspring from a different race that wants to capture them for their own benefit. All this leads to an emotional and exciting journey that involves the seniors dealing with their insecurities, doubts, and fear of aging.

The film explores various themes that are relatable to the older generation, like love, friendship, and family. It also has its fair share of action where the protagonists fight against the intruders trying to take the cocoons away. The movie also won attention with prominent cameos from popular actors like Courteney Cox, who plays the granddaughter of one of the central characters, Joe (Wilford Brimley), and Jack Gilford as Bernie, the seniors' friend who makes a brief appearance in the film.

The acting is one of the most outstanding features of the film, with Don Ameche's performance as Arthur receiving particular praise. His portrayal of the character's journey and the internal conflict he faces in dealing with the new world he's been introduced to is incredibly impressive. Wilford Brimley's Joe is also a character that stands out with his affable and reliable presence.

The score composed by James Horner is another significant feature that brings out the emotions that the characters feel throughout the movie. The music is an eclectic mix of poignant and uplifting melodies that elevate the scenes to another level.

Director Daniel Petrie successfully manages to maintain the spirit of the original Cocoon film while expanding on the world-building started in the first film. Some scenes can be too sentimental, but they do not feel over-the-top or forced. Instead, it is an emotional journey that has its moments of levity and is ultimately satisfying.

In summary, Cocoon: The Return is a touching and exciting movie that explores the theme of aging and mortality through the eyes of older characters. Its strengths lie in the excellent performances of the cast and the score by James Horner. Although it might be an acquired taste for some, those who liked the first movie will definitely enjoy the sequel. It's a movie that makes one appreciate the beauty of growing old and the cherished relationships that accompany it.

Cocoon: The Return is a 1988 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4 and a MetaScore of 45.