Collectible movie popcorn buckets are emerging as a surprising trend among moviegoers in 2026, with fans eager to acquire these novelty items despite their often impractical designs. The range of available buckets varies widely in both style and capacity, with some becoming sought-after items beyond the theater concession stand.
Among the more notable offerings this year is the Supergirl Lobo Bike popcorn bucket, a compact container modeled after the skull and crossbones-adorned motorcycle featured in the film. At just 23 ounces, it holds significantly less popcorn than typical buckets, which usually hold at least 85 ounces, limiting its appeal for traditional snacking. The design includes a detachable figure and LED lights, but its small capacity categorizes it as more of a collectible than a functional container.
Another notable item is the Spider-Man: Brand New Day combo container shaped like the superhero’s hand, with popcorn held in a web-shaped bowl in the palm. This bucket has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics finding the design unappetizing or awkward.
High-priced buckets such as The Mandalorian & Grogu bust and the Odyssey Trojan Horse stand out for their detailed sculptural qualities but carry premium price tags — $80 and $70 respectively. The Mandalorian bust features a likeness of Pedro Pascal’s character and Grogu but offers standard popcorn volume. The Trojan Horse design, modeled after Christopher Nolan’s film, has sparked some skepticism due to the placement of the popcorn compartment.
Movie tie-in buckets that blend design and functionality include the Super Troopers 3 bucket, which retails at under $40 and can hold 130 ounces of popcorn, making it a budget-friendly option. Similarly, the Project Hail Mary helmet bucket features a transparent visor allowing users to monitor popcorn levels and sits flat on surfaces, balancing novelty and usability.
Popular franchise characters also make appearances in popcorn bucket form: the Super Mario Galaxy bucket features a large, egg-shaped container held by a Yoshi figure, while the Michael Black Hat bucket reflects the look of a fedora, capable of holding up to 100 ounces.
Some popcorn buckets have transcended their traditional role as snack holders, becoming fashion statements. The Devil Wears Prada 2 handbag bucket, a pink purse-style container designed for 85 ounces of popcorn, has gained social media attention with fans reportedly carrying it as an accessory rather than using it for food. Similarly, the Practical Magic 2 margarita glass bucket combines form and function, holding 105 ounces of popcorn in a design that mimics a cocktail glass.
These novelty popcorn buckets have sparked a burgeoning collector’s market, with some items being resold online at prices well above their original cost. While opinions vary on their practicality and aesthetic appeal, the craze reflects a growing culture of movie merchandise fandom, blending entertainment with collectible art.