Cocoon: The Return 1988

As the Antareans prepare to return to their home planet after a five-year absence, they embark on a mission to retrieve the cocoons left behind from their previous failed rescue attempt. However, one of these precious cargo is intercepted by a team of scientists and whisked away to a secure laboratory for thorough examination. The aliens and their human companions must now find a way to infiltrate the facility and reclaim the cocoon before it’s too late, all while grappling with the existential dilemma of whether to remain on Earth or return to Antarea.

Meanwhile, Joe (character not specified) is confronted with the sobering reality that his leukemia has returned, but he knows that once he departs Earth, the disease will be cured. Tragedy strikes when Alma is struck by a car while selflessly saving a child’s life. In a poignant display of sacrificial love, Joe gives up the last vestiges of his vitality to save her life, ultimately sacrificing his own in the process. As his final act, he imparts wise counsel upon Alma, urging her to accept a position at a preschool and revealing his profound affection for her. Art and Bess learn that they are expecting a child, and decide to raise their offspring on Antarea, ensuring they will live long enough to witness their little one grow and flourish.

Ben and Mary reconnect with loved ones, including Bernie, who has found solace in love with Ruby, alleviating his longstanding grief over Rose’s passing. Jack, once again nursing a broken heart, makes another attempt to woo Kitty, only to be met with a mystical vision of his future – a tableau featuring children, a loving wife, and a small heart-shaped birthmark on her neck.

On the eve of Ben, Mary, Art, and Bess’s departure for Antarea, Alma announces that she has chosen to remain behind, opting to dedicate herself to the preschool. As the group prepares to leave without her, they are unexpectedly summoned by Kitty to rescue an imprisoned Antarean from the Oceanographic Institute. Sara, a scientist at the facility, becomes aware of the sinister plans to hand over the alien to military authorities and, sympathetic to their plight, facilitates their escape.

In the face of these existential crossroads, the characters must navigate their own destinies, confronting the profound consequences of their choices as they hurtle toward an uncertain future.

As the quartet successfully retrieves the Antarean vessel from Jack’s (Jack) boat drifting at sea, Ben reveals to his companions that he and Mary have decided to remain on Earth, prioritizing family bonds over eternal life. This poignant declaration is met with a mix of understanding and empathy from the others, who acknowledge the importance of not outliving one’s children. The emotional stakes are palpable as they bid farewell to their loved ones, knowing that their departure will forever alter the course of their relationships.

Meanwhile, Jack returns to port, where he shares a poignant moment with Ben, Mary, and David before parting ways. His attention is later piqued by Sara’s unexpected query about obtaining fuel, leading them on a leisurely stroll as they engage in conversation. As their chat unfolds, Sara confides in Jack about her recent decision to leave behind the familiarity of employment, the uncertainty of this new chapter hanging precariously in the balance. It is during this candid exchange that Jack’s gaze lingers on the small, delicate heart-shaped birthmark adorning Sara’s neck, a subtle yet telling detail that hints at the depth and complexity of her character.