Is Hicks onscreen long enough to establish an Enneagram number?
Well, he sleeps! This actually is a character trait, the ability to nod off during a tense drop. We know he’s an experienced soldier, but still not every number could do that. I want to guess a Nine right away.
He’s not a born leader. Corporal. He’s efficient and competent, reliable in a fight. More than a Private but not a Lieutenant. When he’s given command he can lead, but it’s not a position he seeks. Also, when Ripley wants instruction on the pulse rifle, Hicks gives simple, complete directions. He has the leadership skills, just not the ambition.
And he’s got the secret shotgun for “close encounters”. Not a rule follower.
Hudson, Bill Paxton’s wonderful character, is the movie’s Heart Type. Hicks is not. He’s not a Head Type, either. The sleeping, the ease, he must be a Body Type.
He’s not reactionary enough to be an Eight and he’s not zippy enough to be a One. A Nine it is.