Cocoon (PG) PRESENTED IN 35MM FILM

Cocoon (PG, 1985) Presented in 35mm Film by The Revival House Perth in partnership with RAC

In a quiet Florida retirement community, three elderly friends—Art Selwyn (Don Ameche), Ben Luckett (Wilford Brimley), and Joe Finley (Hume Cronyn)—regularly trespass at an abandoned estate to swim in the pool. After mysterious pods are placed in the pool by a group of people renting the property, the men discover something miraculous: the water makes them feel decades younger, restoring their energy and vitality. What they don't know is that the estate's renters are actually aliens led by Walter (Brian Dennehy), who have returned to Earth to rescue their comrades left behind thousands of years ago in the pods—cocoons that are recharging in the pool. When the aliens' secret is revealed, they offer the elderly residents of the retirement home a choice: return with them to their home planet Antarea, where they will never age or become sick again, but can never return to Earth. The seniors must decide between immortality and saying goodbye to their families forever.

Director Ron Howard crafts a gentle science fiction fable about aging, mortality, and the choices we make at life's end. The 1985 film balances wonder and humor with genuine emotion, treating its elderly characters with dignity while exploring their desires, fears, and regrets. Don Ameche won an Oscar for his energetic performance, particularly in a breakdancing scene that showcases his renewed vitality, while the ensemble cast—including Jessica Tandy, Maureen Stapleton, and Gwen Verdon—brings depth to their characters' dilemmas. The special effects by Industrial Light & Magic create convincing aliens and the climactic departure sequence. James Horner's score adds warmth and wonder. The film asks profound questions about mortality and what we'd sacrifice for eternal life, all while delivering crowd-pleasing entertainment that respects both its characters and its audience.

Original format and audio experience of this film faithfully reproduced by The Revival House. Presented in 35mm film unless noted otherwise.

When: Sunday, June 28th at 4:15PM
Where: The Revival House at the Como Theatre
Rating: PG (The content is mild in impact)

Howard's heartwarming sci-fi fable about aging and immortality - experience Ameche's Oscar-winning performance in 35mm film.

Presented by: The Revival House Perth and RAC