AMC’s Infamous ‘Dune’ Sandworm Popcorn Bucket Is Back for ‘Part Three’ With New Designs
Developing story first seen 2 hours ago
AMC Theatres has revealed two new sandworm popcorn bucket designs for Dune: Part Three, following the viral success of the merchandise for the previous film. The return of the tie-in matters because collectible cinema merchandise can draw attention to a film and bring in extra revenue.
The new items are the Sandworm Thumper Collectible and Double Sandworm Collectible, and each comes with a large popcorn. They are due at AMC cinemas in the United States and Odeon cinemas across Europe; prices have not yet been announced and are expected closer to the film’s 18 December release. The previous bucket inspired a Saturday Night Live sketch, while collectible cinema buckets have sold for up to $80.
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In short
- AMC has revealed two new Dune: Part Three sandworm buckets.
- Each collectible includes a large popcorn.
- Prices will be announced closer to the film’s release.
How this story developed
- 41 minutes ago AMC Theatres has unveiled two new sandworm popcorn bucket designs for Dune: Part Three, reviving a tie-in that became a viral hit with the previous film.
- 48 minutes ago AMC Theatres has revealed two new sandworm popcorn bucket designs for Dune: Part Three, following the viral success of the merchandise for the previous film.
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The case for
Distinctive film tie-ins can deepen fans’ enjoyment, give them a tangible memento and create excitement around a release. If customers willingly pay for collectibles, the revenue can also help cinemas diversify income and support theatrical releases.
The case against
Turning cinema merchandise into a publicity spectacle can draw attention away from the film and encourage consumer spending driven by hype or scarcity. High prices for novelty items may also make the experience feel geared towards collectors with extra money, rather than offering value to ordinary cinema-goers.
Explained simply
Dune is a science-fiction story set on the desert planet Arrakis, where giant sandworms live beneath the dunes. The films are based on novels by Frank Herbert, and the third instalment is due in December.
AMC is a major cinema chain in the United States, while Odeon operates cinemas in Europe. Both sell popcorn and film-themed collectibles, which can give audiences a souvenir and bring cinemas extra revenue.
The earlier Dune popcorn bucket became widely talked about online and was joked about on Saturday Night Live. Its popularity reflects how cinema merchandise can attract attention beyond the screen, though prices for such collectibles can vary widely.
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