Top Gun popcorn buckets are available. Collectors can choose Goose or Maverick helmet designs as both films return to theaters for the 40th anniversary.

Top Gun Popcorn Bucket - Goose design
Photo Credit: Marcus Theatres

Movie collectible fans have clearance for takeoff this spring, as two Top Gun popcorn bucket designs are being released for the upcoming return of Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick to theaters. The limited-edition helmet buckets are themed to two of the franchise’s most iconic pilots: Goose and Maverick. The collectible release coincides with the 40th anniversary of the original Top Gun, with both films scheduled to return to theaters beginning May 13, 2026, for a one-week engagement.

Two Helmet Designs Inspired by the Films

Red pilot helmet with white and blue zigzag stripes, a dark visor, and an attached green gas mask secured with black straps.

The two popcorn buckets are modeled after fighter-pilot helmets seen in the movies. One version is a bright red helmet inspired by Goose, complete with “GOOSE” lettering and VF-1 squadron markings. It also features a flip-up visor that opens to reveal the popcorn compartment.

Two Top Gun popcorn buckets themed flight helmets with red, white, and blue graphics; popcorn spills from the left helmet, logo above on a dark background.

The second design is a dark navy blue Maverick-themed helmet with character-accurate markings and the same flip-up visor. It’s designed to resemble the legendary helmet worn by Pete “Maverick” Mitchell throughout the franchise. Marcus Theatres, lists both designs online at $35.99 each. However, they appear to be sold out online!

Where Fans Can Find The Top Gun Popcorn Buckets

Multiple theater chains are expected to offer one or both designs, including:

  • AMC Theatres
  • Cinemark
  • Marcus Theatres

Availability may vary by location, and as with many recent collectible popcorn buckets, supplies are expected to be limited.

These Top Gun Popcorn Buckets Could Sell Fast

Novelty red motorcycle-style helmet with Union Jack design, opened to reveal popcorn-filled interior, showcasing a popcorn helmet product

Movie theater popcorn buckets have become a major collectible trend, especially for nostalgia-driven releases. With Top Gun celebrating 40 years and Top Gun: Maverick still hugely popular with fans, these two helmet buckets could become one of the hottest movie merchandise drops of the season. Collectors may especially want the Goose bucket, since character-specific Goose merchandise has historically been rarer than Maverick-themed items.

Whether fans choose Goose, Maverick, or both, these Top Gun popcorn bucket designs look ready to dominate concession stands this May. For longtime fans of the franchise, it may be the perfect wingman for movie night. Of course, another question is whether these will disappear faster, or the Shrek Outhouse popcorn bucket. Happy popcorn bucket hunting!

For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News. As always, eat like you mean it!

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Jon Self

Jon Self is an avid theme park fan. You can follow him at @pastorjonself on X/ Twitter or Jon.Self.37 at Instagram. He has been writing and editing in the theme park media world for over a decade. He also writes for several "foodie" sites as well as in the faith-based world.