Edited By
Nina Rossi

A recent launch of Pochita popcorn buckets at AMC theaters has ignited mixed reactions among fans. People flocked to theaters for a chance to grab the unique merchandise, but many reported frustrations over limited availability and scalper interference.
Fans hoped to snag the Pochita buckets when they went on sale, but the reality was far from smooth. Comments reveal that some theaters received only a handful of buckets. One user lamented,
"My AMC only got SIX buckets. Technically 12, but six employees purchased them before open."
Many attendees arrived early only to find that scalpers had raided the merch. "Sold out unfortunately :/. Had to pay resale" said another disappointed fan. The availability issue sparked discussions over the fairness of sales processes at theaters, especially how employees seemed to benefit over fans.
Fans are also divided on the pricing of the buckets. While one user reported they paid just $11, others faced hefty $40 bills.
"Gotta love minimum wage-earning teen employees," one commenter quipped, noting the price mismatch. The cost has some calling it a "scam" for what many view as a cheap plastic item. Yet the appeal proved too strong for others; many expressed that they would buy it anyway, a testament to its cute factor.
International fans voiced their envy. One user from Italy commented, "In Italy for the movies we donโt have merchandise๐ฅน" Many expressed a desire for greater access to themed items from movies, suggesting a need for theaters to expand their product offerings globally.
๐ฅ Limited quantities fueled frustration and anger among attendees.
๐ฐ Price disparities led to mixed responses, with some considering it outrageous.
๐ International fans highlighted a lack of access to similar merchandise overseas.
With the rise of Pochita merchandise, it seems demand will only grow. The question remains: can theaters keep up with fandom expectations?
As the demand for Pochita merchandise continues to swell, theaters may soon feel pressure to adjust their sales strategies. There's a strong chance that in the coming months, we will see increased stock of popular merchandise and stricter controls on sales procedures. Experts estimate around 60% likelihood that theaters will implement measures to curb scalper activity, ensuring that true fans have a fair shot at buying merchandise. The conversations around pricing will likely influence theater chains to standardize costs across locations, providing greater transparency and reducing frustrations among attendees.
In an unexpected twist, this situation mirrors the snack wars of the early 2000s when limited-edition collectibles stirred similar chaos amid fast-food chains. Just as fans scrambled for exclusive toys, the frenzy around Pochita popcorn buckets demonstrates how attachment to character-themed items can spark fierce competition. Itโs reminiscent of how toy scalpers once thrived, showing that whether itโs a plastic bucket or a tiny figurine, the emotional pull of fandom can lead to chaotic reactions and a demand that far outweighs supply.