The long-awaited The Goonies: Return to Skull Cove (2026) brings audiences back to the spirit of childhood adventure, following the original group—now adults—as they reunite for one more impossible quest. The film begins with Mikey, now an archaeologist, returning to Astoria after discovering a mysterious artifact linked to One-Eyed Willy. Though life has taken the Goonies in different directions, the relic’s strange markings hint at a hidden message meant specifically for them, pulling the old friends back together despite the chaos of their adult lives.

As the group reconnects, the nostalgia is immediately palpable, yet the film doesn’t rely solely on sentimentality. Each Goonie confronts personal struggles—jobs, families, and lingering regrets—adding emotional depth to their return. When the artifact leads them to the rediscovery of Skull Cove, a place believed destroyed after their childhood escapade, the characters face a frightening realization: One-Eyed Willy left behind a second treasure, one far more dangerous than the first.

Their journey takes them through treacherous caverns beneath Astoria’s coastline, filled with new traps that blend old-world pirate ingenuity with eerie mysticism. The film balances suspense with humor as the Goonies navigate collapsing tunnels, riddle-filled chambers, and elaborate contraptions that test not only their intelligence but also the bonds that once seemed unbreakable. The banter, both familiar and matured, delivers the heart and warmth fans expect.

Meanwhile, a new antagonist emerges—a ruthless treasure-hunting syndicate convinced that Willy’s final hoard contains a legendary artifact capable of reshaping the world’s oceans. This threat forces the Goonies to act not merely out of curiosity but responsibility, transforming their adventure into a mission with real stakes. The villains’ presence heightens tension, pushing the Goonies to rediscover the courage they had as kids.

Along the way, they meet a new generation of explorers—teenagers inspired by the old Goonies’ legend—creating a dynamic that bridges past and future. These younger characters challenge the adults to reclaim their sense of wonder while learning from their resilience. Their interactions add charm and energy to the narrative, hinting at a possible continuation of the legacy.

The climax delivers a thrilling blend of action and emotion as the Goonies race against time through Skull Cove’s deepest chamber. In the end, the adventure becomes less about treasure and more about rediscovering friendship, loyalty, and the magic of believing in the impossible. The film closes with the promise that, as long as someone dares to chase the unknown, the spirit of the Goonies will never fade.