Marvel’s latest promotional effort surrounding the upcoming film, Thunderbolts*, has left fans feeling somewhat disillusioned, particularly with the design of its associated popcorn buckets. As we approach the movie’s highly anticipated release on May 2, excitement has been building among Marvel enthusiasts eager to see these anti-heroes confront the Void. Initially overshadowed by other titles on Marvel’s slate, a compelling trailer and innovative marketing strategies have generated considerable buzz around Thunderbolts*.
One notable marketing approach that has gained traction in recent years is the offering of collectible popcorn buckets. A well-designed bucket can significantly influence fans’ decision to attend the theater to obtain one. Marvel has a rich history of creating striking popcorn buckets, such as the clever Wolverine design for the Deadpool & Wolverine collaboration and a sizable shield for Captain America: Brave New World. Given the quirky nature of Thunderbolts*, fans had high hopes for imaginative popcorn bucket designs that would reflect the film’s tone.
The Thunderbolts* Popcorn Buckets Have Fallen Short of Expectations
Availability at Major Movie Theater Chains
Several major movie theater chains are set to offer their versions of the Thunderbolts* popcorn bucket. For example, Cinemark will showcase a bucket adorned with images of the Thunderbolts, complete with a lid styled as Red Guardian’s helmet. Regal Movies will provide a standard bucket featuring a team photo, which can be purchased along with collectible Funko Pops. Interestingly, AMC has offered a unique structural design, resembling a limousine from Alexei Shostakov’s chauffeur service, with an opening at the front hood.
Despite the promise of quality, fans are disappointed that these popcorn buckets do not stand out. Notably, Red Guardian appears to take center stage in many of the designs, which raises eyebrows considering the presence of other beloved characters within the Thunderbolts* ensemble. The general designs lean towards standard cup shapes, lacking the creative flair and inventive features that Marvel fans have come to expect, especially with a franchise capable of producing eccentric and fun designs.
Bucky Barnes’ Arm Takes Center Stage in Popcorn Bucket Designs
BossLogic’s Vision Brings Bucky to Life
The lackluster reception of the official popcorn buckets is magnified when contrasted with an imaginative design presented by fan-favorite digital artist Kode Abdo, better known as BossLogic. Shortly after the official designs were revealed, he unveiled a concept for the Thunderbolts* popcorn bucket featuring a striking black design, complete with bullet holes. Central to this design is the Winter Soldier’s arm, artistically wrapping around the front of the bucket.
What makes BossLogic’s creation notably captivating is its potential for multifunctionality. The Winter Soldier’s prosthetic arm seems designed to hold the bucket while offering an interactive appeal for fans. While collectors would appreciate any variant, the added dimension of interactivity elevates its desirability significantly.
A Wish for the Bucky Barnes Popcorn Bucket to Be Real
Overwhelming Support for BossLogic’s Innovative Design
Bucky has long been a fan favorite within the MCU, making it a logical choice for Marvel to highlight him in their Thunderbolts* merchandise, especially with confirmation of Sebastian Stan’s role in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. BossLogic’s innovative design has sparked widespread enthusiasm online, with many fans expressing a strong preference for it. Comments such as “I would buy this so fast” and “I wish these were real, I need it” have surfaced on social platforms like Instagram.
Moreover, BossLogic’s concept has circulated beyond Instagram as well, reaching other platforms like X, where users have lamented the reality of the official designs while yearning for something more captivating. While the existing Thunderbolts* popcorn buckets are certainly acceptable, a design focused on the most beloved character, complete with interactive features, would undoubtedly resonate more profoundly with fans and enhance their viewing experience.