The Dune sandworms have made their way to a new frontier: eBay. Following the release of Dune: Part Two in theaters, AMC Theaters introduced a viral sandworm popcorn bucket as a tribute to the highly anticipated sequel. These collectible buckets, resembling the massive desert creatures from the Dune universe known as Shai-Hulud, were initially sold by AMC for $24.99 plus tax.
However, these limited-edition souvenirs have now found their way onto eBay, with prices soaring to over $800 in some cases. While most listings on the online marketplace range from $40 to $100, there are several listings asking for significantly higher amounts.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the most expensive listing on eBay for the sandworm popcorn bucket was $846.36, nearly 34 times the original price. Although no one has yet purchased these high-priced buckets, some have been sold for over $100 since the premiere of the sci-fi sequel.
The unique design of the bucket, which requires reaching through rubbery sandworm teeth to grab popcorn, has garnered significant attention. It has inspired a variety of reactions, including a raunchy SNL music video and numerous memes, some of which have a sexual undertone.
During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, cast members of Dune: Part Two reacted to the viral collectible. While some, like Zendaya, declined the offer, others like Timothée Chalamet and Florence Pugh had playful and puzzled responses to the bucket.
In a recent interview with The New York Times, director Denis Villeneuve and Chalamet shared their thoughts on the viral bucket. Villeneuve expressed surprise at the design, while Chalamet pondered the creator's reaction to the attention it has received.
Overall, the Dune sandworm popcorn bucket has become a hot topic online, generating both amusement and curiosity among fans and celebrities alike.