Middle-earth Returns: New Popcorn Bucket Marks LOTR’s 25th Anniversary
A striking Middle-earth popcorn tin arrives as The Lord of the Rings extended editions return to UK and US cinemas for the saga’s 25th birthday, with exclusive extras and more surprises for fans.
To mark a quarter-century since The Lord of the Rings first graced the big screen, a rather eye-catching popcorn tin has been unveiled, inspired by the landscapes and lore of Middle-earth. AMC Theatres have given fans a sneak peek at the design, which features a detailed map of Tolkien’s world—an artefact that any devotee will instantly recognise as the Fellowship’s essential guide from the Shire to Mordor. The set is rounded off with a handful of magnets, each shaped after iconic symbols: the One Ring, the Eye of Sauron, the Leaf of Lórien, and Arwen’s pendant. The tin is already up for grabs for those keen to add a bit of fantasy to their film snacks.
With the extended editions of the trilogy making their way back to cinemas, audiences can now enjoy their popcorn in style. In the United States, screenings begin with The Fellowship of the Ring on 16 January, followed by The Two Towers on the 17th, and The Return of the King on the 18th. Across the UK, the films will be shown at various cinema chains from 15 January onwards, giving fans a chance to relive the epic journey on the big screen once more.
Anniversary Screenings and Special Extras
This re-release isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a celebration of 25 years since The Fellowship of the Ring first arrived in cinemas, launching a phenomenon that’s endured for generations. Each screening will feature exclusive introductions from director Peter Jackson, recorded especially for the occasion. The event has already made quite a splash, with domestic presales in the US topping $5 million and over 400,000 tickets snapped up, according to Variety.
For those who fancy a bit of memorabilia, the popcorn tin and magnets offer a tangible slice of Middle-earth to take home. It’s a proper treat for anyone who’s ever dreamed of setting out on an adventure beyond the borders of the Shire.
What’s Next for Tolkien’s World?
The excitement doesn’t end with the anniversary screenings. A brand new film is currently in the works, with Andy Serkis—famed for his portrayal of Smeagol—set to direct and reprise his role in The Hunt for Gollum, due for release on 17 December 2027. Meanwhile, the third series of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is deep in post-production, promising more tales from the Second Age for those who can’t get enough of Middle-earth’s intrigue and drama.
Tickets for the re-release are available now, and for those looking to revisit the saga in the correct order, there are guides aplenty. With so much on the horizon, it’s a rather good time to be a fan of Tolkien’s world.
Which Release Has You Most Excited?
With both The Hunt for Gollum and the next series of The Rings of Power on the way, there’s plenty to look forward to.
Over to you! Which Lord of the Rings release are you most looking forward to? The Rings of Power season 3 or The Hunt for Gollum?