Cocoon

Starring:Don Ameche, Wilford Brimley, Hume Cronyn, Brian Dennehy, Jack Gilford, Steve Guttenberg, Maureen Stapleton, Jessica Tandy, Gwen Verdon, Herta Ware, Tahnee Welch, Barret Oliver, Linda Harrison, Tyrone Power Jr., Clint Howard, Charles Lampkin, Mike Nomad, Jorge Gil, James Ritz, Charles Rainsbury
Director: Ron Howard
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Product Type: DVD

Amazon.com essential video

An offbeat and charming comedy with elements of science fiction thrown in, director Ron Howard's (Ransom, Apollo 13) unlikely fantasy ponders the price of immortality and the power of everlasting love. A group of aliens travel to a Florida retirement community to rescue some long-stranded colleagues cocooned and buried beneath the sea. But as the aliens take on human form and stash their counterparts in a swimming pool, a group of elderly retirees discover the pool and after swimming in the water find themselves rejuvenated, with boundless energy and insatiable appetites. Soon the retirees are forced to choose between living out their lives on earth with their families, or leaving with the aliens and attaining immortality. More character driven than dependent on the incredible plot, the film's charm comes from its characters and the wonderful cast, including Don Ameche, who won an Academy Award for his role as one of the randy retirees. --Robert Lane

Description

Don Ameche (1985 Academy Award®, Best Supporting Actor), Hume Cronyn, Jack Gilford, Maureen Stapleton, Jessica Tandy, Gwen Verdon, Wilford Brimley and Steve Guttenberg star in this charming fantasy adventure.

Customer Reviews:

add to collection.......2007-05-06

Good quality. Fast delivery. Adding to collection of academy award movies.

Entertaining movie........2007-03-18

"Cocoon" is a good Sunday afternoon, put-your-feet-up-and-sit-back type of film. Nothing more, nothing less. It's real old fashioned entertainment. And while I like this film, I really am surprised just how revered it is. Some call it a "classic" which really is stretching things just a tad. Not to rain on anyone's parade, but having just watched this film again, after not having seen it since it originally came out, I was struck by just how under-developed the whole film was. The focus of the film is (deservedly so) on the elderly characters who get a new shot at life, so to speak. This then relegates the rest of the characters to nothing more than background dressing. Perhaps there were a few scenes (reels, maybe?) that were cut from the film or just not filmed. And yes, I know that a lot of people will decry my review as being "ageist" -- however, this being a sci-fi film, one would think that the alien angle would have been beefed up a bit more. As it stands, the revelation of the alien's identities and intentions are so conveniently and expediently accepted by the characters that one would presume the aliens are capable of mind-control; however that would be to introduce a sinister underpinning to the film and that sort of complexity would have gone against what Ron Howard was trying to convey. I would assume that Ron Howard just didn't have a strong handle on the material, nor a clear vision of exactly what he wanted to convey with the story. I personally felt that Wilford Brimley's decision to go away with the aliens was terribly insensitive to his grand-son's needs, not to mention unrealistic. I know it's "only a movie" but some kind of wisdom (in keeping with the older makes wiser notion, if nothing else) would have made for a stronger conclusion.

Steve Guttenberg's character was completely under-developed, apart from playing boat captain, then peeping tom, then fodder for the token alien-human love scene. The same for the alien characters. I mean, casting Brian Dennehy and then not utilising his talents is like casting Robert De Niro in the role of Darth Vader and not using his voice either!

There are a lot of aspects (characters and situations) that Ron Howard had to juggle with this film, and once again, it comes down to his handling of the material that impedes the film. The inclusion of Guttenberg's and Tahnee Welch's love interest is obviously in catering to a younger demographic, and really wasn't necessary. It plays out as tacked on and not realistic or natural. More screen time and development of these two characters would have served the film better and made the love scene less intrusive and more necessary to the plot.

Overall, this movie is a good movie, very entertaining and it is great to see some veteran older actors/actresses getting their due, however, it's just not a true cinema classic. I would suggest that anyone wanting to see a film concerning old people that most definitely IS a classic, do yourself a favour and buy David Lynch's "The Straight Story" one of the warmest, sincerest and original films ever conceived. And don't let the fact that David Lynch directed it put you off. If you only think Lynch is capable of producing "weird for weird sake" type films (and I love Lynch's work), then allow "The Straight Story" (and yes, the title is meant to be somewhat ironic) to dispell those preconceptions.

A very good film that deserves to be appreciated by a new generation of viewers.......2007-02-06

Since this movie is now more than twenty years old (shocking), I realized that my teenagers had not seen it, so I rented it and we watched it together. It still holds up quite well. This is because the story is really quite strong. The old guys are charming and keep us engaged, but will they get in trouble for trespassing? Who are these strangers that rent Jack Bonner's (Steve Guttenberg) boat for 27 days and the estate with the pool for 26? What can they be up to? Why do they seem to be able to communicate with dolphins?

This movie, even more than the wonderful "Trading Places", gave a new spark to Don Ameche's late career because his character, Arthur Selwyn, is so charming and likeable. Break Dancing was quite new to the popular culture in 1985 and to see "him" doing those moves was delightful. It was shot quite well and still fools audiences about which moves are from Don Ameche and which are stunt folks and trick shots. His ballroom dancing with Gwen Verdon's Bess is also quite elegantly done.

Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy as Joseph and Alma Finley bring their personal love for each other to the screen and add a great deal to the story. We see that regaining the vigor of youth can have a downside if you weren't all that well grounded as a youth. Jack Gilford and Heta Ware play Bernard and Rosie Lefkowitz. Rosie is kind of out of it and very sad. She is sicker than she let's Bernard know. Bernard is a man who KNOWS how the world should be and that this pool isn't anything close to right. Yet, in the end, his certitude costs him what he loves most. It is a very touching scene.

Wildford Brimley and Maureen Stapleton play Benjamin and Marilyn Lukett. They are the anchor to the story. Benjamin has a young grandson whom he loves and this presents issues as the story progresses, for good and ill. The grandson, David (well portrayed by Barret Oliver), has a difficult relationship with his parents and is probably too attached to his grandpa Benjamin. Again, this has implications as the story progresses.

There is suspense in the unfolding of the story (if you haven't already scene how things turn out). Director Ron Howard and the writers did a fine job in keeping us in the moment of the film and a bit off balance as to what was actually happening. There is some fine comedy, too. There is a touch of romance and some tender scenes to balance the raucous fun and even some threatening moments.

It really does run a wide range of emotions and story types.

One interesting bit I didn't know until watching the movie this time is that Wilford Brimley was playing old. He was only fifty-one when the film came out and is really only four years older than Brian Dennehy and twenty years and more younger than the other "old folks" whom he pals around with. Even Maureen Stapleton who played his wife, was nine years older.

This is an excellent movie that deserves to be scene by new audiences and holds up to repeated viewings very well.

Superb, and an Excellent Feature.......2006-08-13

The Film COCOON is a definite classic.It's much more than just a comedy.The basic outline of the Aliens who come to rescue their groundcrew and how some old folks get involved is revealing on many levels. It is a great film with superb entertainment value, and if you look at it more deeply( after listening to The Directors Commentary)then you will be the richer for it.
The majority of scenes are all "practical" using the existing places in St Petersburg on the West Coast of Florida; this area is very historic in all respects. What some people may miss is that the evening shots are mostly done in or near the Bahamas( East Coast !!), so that was a bit of a cheat.
Anyway, the only down side of this edition is the dual Sided single Disc with Widescreen and Full Screen... those single discs with two sides are such a headache since their size is not consistent with most players ( especially PC based Players) but works perfectly on the DVP 642 by Phillips, as at this date, that Phillips DVD player is the best value for dollar DVD player around in Zone 1, which also plays mutiple Zones of various discs.
The Extra features are very good, especially on the general cost of this disc which is usually under 6 dollars.
You will see the problems with Analogue to digital transfers ( especially near the start) where the window shot is done Chroma-key, and some visual definition issues occur, which COULD have been cleaned up if the studio had spent the money.

Overall , an excellent package.

this will change the way you see the elderly........2006-07-30

If there's one thing other reviews don't tell you much, is that Cocoon is an extremely sad film, one of the most touching movies ever made. It centers around the human nature, choices we make and the ones we love around us. One of the kind, innocent character's death in the film and the moments leading up to it is probably one of the saddest things you'll see in a movie. It's an incredible film that makes us feel almost sorry that we live here on earth with no chances of living forever to see the wonders and beauties of the universe. The cast is flawless, every person in it did a great job and you really felt for the characters. This is a must have, and must watch. As someone else said it, every elderly person should watch this film, it's really a moving experience and will always remain one of my favorite movies.

Average customer rating:

Cocoon & the return

Cocoon / Cocoon - The Return
Starring: Don Ameche , Wilford Brimley , Hume Cronyn , Brian Dennehy , and Jack Gilford
Director: Ron Howard , and Daniel Petrie
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

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( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
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ASIN: B000KGGIWI
Release Date: 2006-12-05

Customer Reviews:

Cocoon & the return.......2007-03-13

These were such entertaining films. Had some science, tear jerks, romance, & comedy. We watched them back to back. They made us smile.

Average customer rating:

Divine Myth!
Good acting from oldsters, but bad directing and writing
Not as good as the original but I've seen worse sequels
great movie
Cocoon2 - The Return

Cocoon - The Return
Starring: Don Ameche , Wilford Brimley , Courteney Cox , Hume Cronyn , and Jack Gilford
Director: Daniel Petrie
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Comic Action | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B00020HAWE
Release Date: 2004-06-01

Description

In this charming, funny and very moving sequel to the hit film "Cocoon," the adventurous old-timers who left Earth for the alien utopia Antarea, return on a rescue mission. Although accustomed to their new peaceful, problem-free planet, they realize the joys they left behind after they are reunited with their stunned families. Yet for all their happiness, they must once again confront the human frailties of their past.

Customer Reviews:

Divine Myth!.......2007-02-08

For those who are in my age catagory whis is 65 and over will abslutely love this one! 's one of the best ever!

Good acting from oldsters, but bad directing and writing.......2006-10-07

To get complete enjoyment from this film, DO NOT try to put it into context with the original. The acting from the oldsters was brillant. However, Tahnee Welch seemed to force her self to act convingly, that she wasnt very convincing. The film has its glory moments, Like the hospital scene. And the scene where the seniors and the alien steal the alien from the oceanolgy institute. The hospital scene was very well done, but messed up the intended illusion from the first film. Infact the entire movie messed up the illusion of the first. That illusion was that these people were going to space to live forever. Not that illusion is gone. Wacth this if you want good acting, but for a good story, DONT.

Not as good as the original but I've seen worse sequels.......2006-09-19

The suprise is known so the jig is up. As the old people return to earth for a visit, earth's atmosphere takes it's toll on their frail bodies. I'm glad they didn't do a cocoon 3 I noticed Ron Howard didn't direct this one but most of the original cast was back even Brian Dennahey who was just in the last 3 minutes of the picture ( he probably wanted too much money) It wasen't bad, but it just didn't live up to the energy and awe of the first movie. Enjoy!

great movie.......2005-11-12

A very nice continuation of the first movie, well worth watching,as stated earlier,the hospital scene between Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy is very touching, and the basketball scene was hilarious.Good sequel.

Cocoon2 - The Return.......2005-08-10

A great sequel to the first Cocoon. Same characters but now we learn how things have gone for them in space and also those who remained at home. Those who went away now understand how they are cut off from relatives left at home. This leads to some who elect to stay behind when its time to return to space. Again, laughter and joyful living!

Average customer rating:

Good Sequel

Cocoon / Cocoon 2 - The Return
Starring: Don Ameche , Wilford Brimley , Hume Cronyn , Brian Dennehy , and Jack Gilford
Director: Ron Howard , and Daniel Petrie
Manufacturer: 20th Century Fox
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
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*Batteries Not Included
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ASIN: B0002IQKI6
Release Date: 2004-08-03

Amazon.com

Cocoon: An offbeat and charming comedy with elements of science fiction thrown in, director Ron Howard's (Ransom, Apollo 13) unlikely fantasy ponders the price of immortality and the power of everlasting love. A group of aliens travel to a Florida retirement community to rescue some long-stranded colleagues cocooned and buried beneath the sea. But as the aliens take on human form and stash their counterparts in a swimming pool, a group of elderly retirees discover the pool and after swimming in the water find themselves rejuvenated, with boundless energy and insatiable appetites. Soon the retirees are forced to choose between living out their lives on earth with their families, or leaving with the aliens and attaining immortality. More character driven than dependent on the incredible plot, the film's charm comes from its characters and the wonderful cast, including Don Ameche, who won an Academy Award for his role as one of the randy retirees. --Robert Lane

Cocoon 2: The Return:In this charming, funny and very moving sequel to the hit film Cocoon, the adventurous old-timers who left Earth for the alien utopia Antarea, return on a rescue mission. Although accustomed to their new peaceful, problem-free planet, they realize the joys they left behind after they are reunited with their stunned families. Yet for all their happiness, they must once again confront the human frailties of their past.

Customer Reviews:

Good Sequel.......2007-01-03

This is equal or better than the classic movie Cocoon.

The quality of movies in recent years has declined so much that we have decided to acquire a collection of movies that we would watch a second time. TV programming is so bad that my TV stays off most of the time, I am spending more at Amazon.

Average customer rating:

Europe's best kept musical secret

10: 1993-2003 Ten Years Of
Starring: K's Choice
Manufacturer: Cocoon Records
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Post Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0002JP2H0
Release Date: 2004-08-10

Customer Reviews:

Europe's best kept musical secret.......2005-11-07

I first saw K's Choice when they opened for the Indigo Girls about 5 years ago and they totally blew me away. Since then, I have everything they have done, including some hard to find bootleg cd's. Ten Years of K's Choice is filled with all the bands video's, interviews and live concert footage. It's the best thing I've ever owned. These guys are so good. I'm secretly glad that America hasn't figured out just how good they are....otherwise, I'd never get such good seats at their shows. :o)

Average customer rating:

Cocoon [Region 2]
Starring: Don Ameche , Wilford Brimley , Hume Cronyn , Brian Dennehy , and Jack Gilford
Director: Ron Howard , and Daniel Petrie
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Genres | DVD | Video

( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
ASIN: B0001Z65BC

Average customer rating:

Cocoon [Region 2]
Starring: Bjork
Manufacturer: One Little Indian
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000063CKN
Release Date: 2002-04-02

Average customer rating:

80s Hits DVD Collection, Vol. 2

ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
ASIN: B000RKT0HW
Release Date: 2007-07-03

Amazon.com

This DVD collection contains six hits of the '80s, including: Rain Man, Platoon, Die Hard, Cocoon, Rocky III, and Rocky IV.

DVD:

DVD List

DVD

DVD

Beast From Haunted Cave

Pootie Tang

Devil's Advocate [WS] [1998] (REGION 1) (NTSC)

DVD: Halloween (Divimax 25th Anniversary Edition)

Dokken - One Live Night