Cocoon: The Return

The Antareans gear up for their long-awaited return to their home planet after finishing a five-year mission on Earth. Their main task during this preparation is to retrieve the cocoons they had previously abandoned during a rescue effort.

Before the Antareans can reclaim their precious cocoons, scientists intercept one and take it to a secure laboratory for inspection. This event prompts the aliens, along with their human allies, to devise a plan to infiltrate the facility to retrieve it.

Joe faces the heart-wrenching news that his leukemia has returned, a painful reminder of his mortality. Despite knowing the disease will not follow him to Antarea, he struggles with the emotional implications of his condition.

In a tragic event, Alma selflessly saves a child but is struck by a car. This act of bravery has dire consequences, strengthening the group's bonds while highlighting the risks they face.

After Alma's accident, Joe makes a pivotal decision to relinquish his remaining vitality to save her life. This poignant sacrifice leads to his own demise, underscoring the themes of love and selflessness that mark their journey.

Before passing, Joe shares heartfelt advice with Alma, encouraging her to pursue a teaching position at a preschool. He openly expresses his deep feelings for her, adding emotional depth to his final moments.

Art and Bess discover they are expecting a child, prompting a significant decision about their future. They ultimately choose to raise their family on Antarea, embracing the opportunity for their child to thrive in a new environment.

Ben rekindles his relationship with Mary while mourning the loss of Rose. He finds support in their friend Bernie, who has found love again with Ruby, illustrating the healing process amid emotional turmoil.

Still feeling heartbroken, Jack attempts to win back Kitty's affection but is instead presented with a mystical vision of his future. This vision includes a family and love, foreshadowing his journey ahead.

As the group prepares to leave for Antarea, Alma surprises them by choosing to remain on Earth. She opts to teach at the preschool, representing both a personal commitment and a pivotal choice for her future.

Just as Alma's decision sinks in, Kitty seeks the group's help to rescue an imprisoned Antarean from the Oceanographic Institute. This urgent plea reignites their mission and reinforces their interconnected destinies.

Sara, a kind-hearted scientist at the institute, becomes aware of the intentions to turn the Antarean over to the military. She decides to help the group execute a daring rescue, showcasing her moral courage and empathy.

The group successfully retrieves the Antarean vessel from Jack's boat, which had drifted out to sea. This accomplishment brings them closer together, as they work toward an uncertain future.

Ben reveals that he and Mary have decided to remain on Earth, prioritizing their family over the allure of eternal life. This heartfelt admission underscores the emotional weight of their choices and their commitment to family ties.

Jack shares a poignant moment with Ben, Mary, and David before they part ways. During a casual stroll with Sara, he notices a heart-shaped birthmark on her neck, hinting at deeper connections yet to unfold.