As a news reporter, I had the opportunity to chat with the Heching family, who shared a unique and fond cinematic trajectory centered around their love for sci-fi and monster movies. Recalling their crucial moviegoing experiences as a young couple in New York City during the mid ’70s, Harry Heching vividly described the impact Ridley Scott’s “Alien” had on him and his wife, Marge, in 1979. The couple found themselves immersed in a dark, suspenseful atmosphere that forever changed their perspective on cinema.
Their sons, Josh and Gideon, also grew up with a shared appreciation for the “Alien” franchise, rooted in the formative experiences of their parents. Despite some trepidation, the family eagerly anticipates the release of the newest film in the series, “Alien: Romulus,” coming out this Friday. While opinions within the family vary on the direction of the franchise and the quality of recent films, there remains a sense of excitement and hope for a return to the franchise’s roots.
With different perspectives on what the new film will bring, from skepticism to cautious optimism, the Heching family continues to bond over their shared love for movies and their nostalgic connection to the “Alien” franchise. Whether quoting memorable lines from “Aliens” or engaging in lively discussions about the latest film, the Heching family’s cinematic journey is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and shared experiences.