The Pop Insider - No. 24 - Summer 2025

IN THIS ISSUE

DEPARTMENTS

20 | MINT CONDITION

Popcorn buckets are the latest craze among collectors.

52 | MERCH MAKERS

Little People’s Journey from Preschool Staple to Collector Must-Have

54 | FLAUNT YOUR FANDOM

This summer, transform your passion into fashion.

16 | POWER TO THE FANS

From LEGO set designs to apparel drops, fans are fully in control.

30 | THE SOUND OF FANDOM

Fandom-inspired vinyl records provide immersion into iconic universes.

56 | UNBOX TO THE TOP

Social media’s biggest influencers are opening toys.

Below: Popcorn buckets have become premium collectors’ items at theme parks and movie theaters. | Source: Universal Theme Parks

The Latest Headlines in Kids’ Merch and Entertainment

42 | FANDOM FINDS: POP JUNIOR Fandom Fun for Younger Fans

49 | BIG FUN FOR LITTLE HEROES

Marvel’s newest Disney Jr. show introduces preschoolers to Iron Man.

Snag these from the show floor.

for Everyone

| GAMES

The Best New Games Hitting the Market

On the cover: Mattel Creations celebrates the 30th anniversary of cult classic Clueless with special editions across its brands, including Barbie ($55 each). Source: Mattel

HOT MERCH SUMMER

Make room on your shelves for the latest finds.

It’s time again for Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC), which means it’s time for the latest Summer edition of The Pop Insider. From a showcase of exclusives from the con (page 12) to the latest threads and accessories you need for your summer wardrobe (page 54), this issue will help you achieve the best summer ever.

In addition to SDCC exclusives, our Fandom Finds showcases cover the hottest merch hitting now and later in the year, including a dedicated section on games for game night fanatics (We’re looking at you, our friends at Gen Con!).

We all know how important it is to use your voice, but “power to the people” is not only a political idea (and a John Lennon song) — it also applies to merch. From crowdfunding platforms to companies that crowdsource design ideas for the next must-have collector sets, more development power is falling into fans’ hands. Learn more on page 16.

It’s not summer without a full slate of summer blockbusters — and it’s not a theatrical experience without a full vat of popcorn. But these days, popcorn buckets are collectibles in their own right. On page 20, we give you the scoop on how collectors are making room for stylized popcorn buckets.

With great movies come great soundtracks and scores that provide full immersive experiences into cinematic worlds. On page 30, we look at how these musical masterpieces are pressed on vinyl records that contain Easter eggs and other fandom gems that make them a great addition to your collection.

If you need a therapeutic remedy for your doom scroll, may we suggest you

dive into the world of unboxing videos? Learn more about how millions of collectors are tuning in as creators unbox hard-to-find goodies online and share the experience with everyone on page 56.

It’s becoming a more popular idea that toys aren’t just for kids, and Mattel is leaning in with its Little People Collector sets. These pop culture-inspired sets transform those chunky figures from preschool staples to collector must-haves. Take a closer look at the line on page 52.

And if you’re looking for toys (and more!) that are for kids, our Pop Junior section (page 39) takes a look into the new Disney Jr. series Iron Man & His Awesome Friends, as well as merch from other popular kids’ entertainment brands.

Whether you’re at SDCC or enjoying from afar, kick back and relax with this hot new issue of The Pop Insider. We’re glad you’re here. ✪

ABOUT THE EDITORS:

Marissa Silva and Ali Mierzejewski are editors-in-chief of The Pop Insider and The Toy Insider. As experts and trend finders in the pop-culture industry, they have been featured on ABC World News Now, Good Morning America, The TODAY Show, MSNBC, and dozens more. Follow them on Instagram @thattoygirl and @ali_ontv.

THE POP INSIDER, Summer 2025 — “THE POP INSIDER” (ISSN-2641-5496) is published quarterly by Adventure Media & Events, LLC, 307 Seventh Ave., Room 501, New York, New York, 10001. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY 10001 and additional mailing offices. © 2025 Adventure Media & Events, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Printed in U.S.A. Subscription rates: $25 for four issues. THE POP INSIDER is a trademark and service mark of Adventure Media & Events, LLC registered in the United States Patent & Trademark Office Postmaster: Send address changes to THE POP INSIDER, c/o Adventure Media & Events, 307 Seventh Ave., Room 501, New York, New York, 10001 or email bill@popinsider.com

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VICE PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

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EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

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Marissa Silva • marissa@popinsider.com

SENIOR EDITOR

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ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Samantha Connell • samantha@popinsider.com

Katherine Hill • katherine@popinsider.com

Ashley Pelletier • ashley@popinsider.com

ASSISTANT EDITORS

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Ellen Slater • ellen@popinsider.com

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

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NEWS WRITER

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Follow us @thepopinsider #fuelyourfandom

NERDY NEWS

JAKKS Pacific, Disguise Costumes Reveal Upcoming Releases at SDCC

JAKKS Pacific and Disguise Costumes will host a special preview panel showcasing new fandom-infused, officially licensed products at Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC). Disguise will show costumes from brands like Minecraft, Pokémon, Demon Slayer, Wicked, and more, while JAKKS Pacific will preview collectibles and figures from Nintendo, Sonic the Hedgehog, Bendy and the Ink Machine, The Simpsons, and others.

There will also be a Q&A session for fans to learn more about the anticipated collections. The panel will take place at SDCC in Room 29AB on Friday, July 25, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. PT. ✪

‘PlayStation | The Concert’ Offers Gamers a Night Out

PlayStation is (for once) getting us up off the couch and out of our homes. Sony Interactive Entertainment, GEA Live, and RoadCo Entertainment are launching a U.S.based tour for “PlayStation | The Concert.”

The show first launched in Dublin, Ireland, in May and features music from some of PlayStation’s most popular games performed by an ensemble of classical and modern instruments. Some highlights include Gustavo Santaolalla’s The Last of Us score, Joris De Man’s Horizon Zero Dawn score, Ilan Eshkeri’s Ghost of Tsushima score, and Bear McCreary’s God of War score. Fans can also enjoy compositions of music from Astro Bot, Journey, Helldivers 2, Bloodborne, and Uncharted.

“PlayStation | The Concert” will tour in the U.S. beginning in New York City on Oct. 11 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. Fans from Washington, D.C., Chicago, Boston, Denver, and more can also enjoy the show. Tickets and more information are available at playstation.com/theconcert. ✪

Sarah J. Maas Book Merch Is Finally in the Works

BookTok girlies, prepare your wallets. IMG Licensing recently signed an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement for Sarah J. Maas’ three iconic book series: A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City. With more than 70 million copies of her books sold worldwide in 38 different languages, there’s certainly going to be a market for all the potential merch.

With this deal, IMG Licensing will build a robust licensing program, meaning you will soon be able to rep your favorite characters, plotlines, and places through apparel, beauty, lifestyle, home decor, wine and spirits, food and drink, toys and games, collectibles, cosplay items, and immersive fan experiences. (Even more things to shove in the faces of friends you just wish would read the books already!)

No dates have been announced for upcoming product lines, but fans can start saving their money now for all of the Velaris, Crescent City, and Terrasen dream collabs to come. ✪

Source: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Source: IMG Licensing

G.I. JOE CLASSIFIED SERIES NO. 163

DREADNOKS COLD SLITHER: BAND OF VIPERS TOUR COMMEMORATIVE ACTION FIGURE SET

HASBRO

The band is getting back together. This G.I. Joe action figure set comes with all four founding members of Cold Slither, each with their signature instrument.

MSRP: $124.99 | Available: Booth No. 3213

A GOOFY MOVIE DELUXE GIFT SET

MONOGRAM

Celebrate 30 years of Goof with this box set. It comes with two 3D foam bag clips, two enamel pins, and a lanyard, all housed in a retro, VHS-style case.

MSRP: $40 | Available: Booth No. 3645

Going in without a plan can make your con experience a struggle. Prepare yourself to stop by all of these booths to snag exclusive merch you’ll only be able to find at Comic-Con International: San Diego.

DC CONVENTION EXCLUSIVE PACKS

UPPER DECK

Collect your team of DC superheroes with these trading cards. Each pack features characters from the first 10 years of DC Comics, with 20 characters to collect across both packs.

MSRP: $25 | Available: Booth No. 307

Hit the

This

MSRP: $80 | Available: Booth No. 5145

high seas.

crossbody bag features Going Merry, the Straw Hat Pirates’ iconic ship. This bag is limited to 2,500 units.

DC COMICS SUPERMAN MOVIE

SUPERMAN AND KRYPTO PXL8 ENAMEL PIN SET HALLMARK

Inspired by the new Superman movie, fans can snag this pin set of Superman and his furry friend Krypto. The enamel pins feature the day-saving duo in pixelated form.

MSRP: $19.99 | Available: Booth No. 3348

SQUAREPANTS CLEANING FUNKO

This Pop! is about to clean out your wallet. It features SpongeBob with his hands full trying to clean up around the pineapple.

MSRP: $20 | Available: Booth No. 5341

LAIKA LANYARD & PINS SET MONOGRAM

Stop-motion animation is so back. Snag this lanyard featuring Laika’s most iconic movies, including Coraline, Kubo and the Two Strings, and more.

MSRP: $20 | Available: Booth No. 3645

LITTLEST PET SHOP 2025 YEAR OF THE SNAKE SDCC EXCLUSIVE FIGURE BASIC FUN!

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with these Chinese-inspired figures. Choose from three 2-inch figure styles, including Jade Blossom, Lucky Gold, and Celebration Red. Each figure comes with a holographic collector card and commemorative coin, and each style is limited to 2,025 pieces.

MSRP: $24.99 each

Available: Booth No. 5613

P.C. POPPLE LARGE PLUSH TLS TOY

This 11-inch P.C. Popple plush is eye-popping. It features a con-exclusive patch on its foot and is extra cuddly.

MSRP: $35 | Available: Booth No. 2544

HAN SOLO IN CARBONITE SILICONE RING

ENSO RINGS

Nothing says “I love you” like carbonite. The ring features a detailed engraving of Han Solo frozen in carbonite with an inscription that says “Someone who loves you” in Aurebesh.

MSRP: $44.99

Available: Booth No. 2913

BLUEY ARTIST EDITION MOOSE TOYS

This 10-inch Bluey figure is totally for real life. It features metallic colors, making her the shining star of your collection.

MSRP: $79.99 | Available: Booth No. 4337

SCALED PROP REPLICA FACTORY ENTERTAINMENT

Welcome this billboard into your JAWS collection. The replica is double-sided for extra display potential.

MSRP: $90 | Available: Booth No. 2743

HOT WHEELS JAWS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

MATTEL

You’re going to need a bigger display. This die-cast set features the Orca fishing boat and the iconic shark from JAWS

MSRP: $32 | Available: Booth No. 2945

THE MATRIX TRINITY KEEPSAKE ORNAMENT

HALLMARK

Add some badass vibes to your Christmas tree with The Matrix Trinity Keepsake Ornament, which features Trinity in a fighting pose, ready to take on any enemy. This ornament is limited to 1,250 pieces.

MSRP: $27 | Available: Booth No. 3348

CHILD’S PLAY 3

ULTIMATE SURF’S UP CHUCKY 7-INCH-SCALE ACTION FIGURE

NECA

Hit the waves with this Chucky figure, which features Chucky ready for the beach in Good Guys-themed board shorts, a rash guard, and flip-flops.

MSRP: $39.99 | Available: Booth No. 3545

STAR WARS REBELLION STARTS NOW POSTER TRENDS INTERNATIONAL

Add some rebellious flair to your decor with this Star Wars poster that features K-2SO surrounded by Rebellion ships, Stormtroopers, and AT-ATs.

MSRP: $30 | Available: Booth No. 2913-F

GODZILLA 2023 (MINUS ONE) GOLD VER. ACTION FIGURE

BANDAI NAMCO TOYS & COLLECTIBLES AMERICA

Godzilla has never been more luxe. Inspired by Godzilla Minus One, this golden figure features more than 18 points of articulation and comes with a gold heat-ray effect piece.

MSRP: $35.99

Available: Booth No. 3345

It started as a joke: Long ago (2009), in a galaxy far, far away (thinkgeek.com), a Tauntaun Sleeping Bag unfurled online. The listing promised parents that their kids could cozy up inside the plush intestines of a semi-sentient reptomammal native to Hoth, made famous in Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back. There was just one problem: Like the creature that inspired it, the Tauntaun Sleeping Bag didn’t exist. It wasn’t for sale — it wasn’t even real. ThinkGeek had posted a mock-up as part of its annual April Fools’ Day prank.

Thanks to fan intervention and overwhelming demand, the Tauntaun Sleeping Bag became 2009’s hottest holiday gift. ThinkGeek released versions for kids and adults, each priced at $100. Tragically for The Pop Insider staff, the sleeping bags have gone the way of the Death Star following GameStop’s 2021 acquisition of ThinkGeek. All we have are warm memories of the Tauntaun’s cozy polyester insides — and a string of brilliant April Fools’ follow-ups, including the Tentacuddle (a wearable knit blanket with several tentacles) and the light-up, sound-effect-laden Technomancer Hoodie.

Sixteen years ago, must-have merch made through fan demand felt revolutionary. Today, it’s expected. From LEGO sets to board games and niche T-shirts, fans now drive the fate of games and merchandise.

PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER

Twenty-five years ago, Jake Nickell and Jacob DeHart, two friends in Chicago, launched Threadless with just $1,000. It wasn’t long before hipsters across the country were rocking the brand’s most iconic designs: “Funkalicious,” featuring an astronaut with a boombox; “Flowers in the Attic,” showing a gunshot splatter that morphs into a swarm of butterflies; and “The Communist Party,” a cartoon of history’s most controversial figures engaging in frat-party antics, red Solo cups in hand.

What sets Threadless apart from the mall staples like Spencer’s is more than just its indie cred. Proudly based in Chicago, the company is rooted in eco-friendly, ethical, and socially responsible practices — and, crucially, it lets fans decide what gets made.

Each week, users vote on submitted designs using a 1-5 scale. Staff review the scores, and top-rated designs get printed. Artists receive 20% royalties from monthly net profits, and many host their own Artist Shops on the platform, maintaining control over pricing and content.

In 2013, Threadless teamed up with Fox for one of its biggest-ever challenge

Seven minifigures and dozens of Easter eggs make the Twilight: Cullen House, a LEGO Ideas winner, a must-have. | Source: The LEGO Group

collaborations to celebrate The Simpsons’ 25th anniversary. The result? A staggering 832 design submissions and 626,290 fan votes, culminating in a 29-piece collection featuring everything from Mr. Plow and the Be Sharps to Ralph Wiggum’s school portrait. “We are thrilled that this partnership with Fox has given independent artists the opportunity to design officially licensed merchandise for the most celebrated animated series of all time,” said Threadless CEO Jake Nickell in a press release at the time.

10,000 votes move into review by LEGO’s internal team for possible production. The review process can take several months. “It is the task of the idea creator to spread the word around their idea and drum up interest in voting,” says Monica Pedersen, marketing director, adults, at The LEGO Group. She added that the platform “provides a way to scale our relationship with lead users and enables LEGO to receive ideas from fans around the world.”

10 complimentary sets, and credit as the official LEGO Ideas designer. They’re also involved in the product development process from start to finish. “Once a product idea is approved, it goes through the exact same development process as any other LEGO product — the difference is the fan designer is included throughout,” Pedersen says. “They get a sneak peek at what it’s like to work for LEGO and bring products to life.”

More recently, Threadless celebrated Strawberry Shortcake’s 45th anniversary with a special design challenge. From 193 submitted designs and nearly 11,000 fan votes, the company produced three winning T-shirts. The top prize: $3,000. “We’re excited to tap into those feelings of nostalgia with classic Strawberry Shortcake and also surprise fans with fun ways they can celebrate the World of Strawberry Shortcake with us,” says Melissa Goodrich, director of franchise strategy at WildBrain. WildBrain manages Strawberry Shortcake’s content, licensing, and consumer product partnerships through its agency WildBrain CPLG.

BUILT BY FANS, BRICK BY BRICK

To LEGO builders, Threadless’ community-driven process may sound more than familiar. It’s the same one championed by the fan-supported innovation arm of The LEGO Group. Originally launched in 2008 as a collaboration between CUUSOO and The LEGO Group, the platform rebranded as LEGO Ideas in 2014.

Fans submit their set concepts on the website, and products that reach

However, LEGO Ideas maintains strict content guidelines: The company does not allow post-World War II warfare themes or R-rated content. (Though sets are officially for ages 18 and up, many families build together.) This means fan-favorite themes like Firefly and Shaun of the Dead were rejected. Zelda-themed sets face challenges due to mold complexity. And since the building company produces official Harry Potter and Star Wars lines, those concepts are also off the table. “Stakeholders evaluate product ideas based on design feasibility, intellectual property availability, and overall portfolio fit,” Pedersen explains.

Still, many beloved fandom icons have made the leap from fan concept to store shelves. Recent releases include a 1,503-piece JAWS set ($149.99), featuring the Orca with an adjustable boom and minifigures of Chief Brody, Matt Hooper, and Quint; and the 2,001-piece Twilight Cullen House ($219.99) with seven minifigures and Bella’s iconic red pickup truck. Pedersen called The Cullen House “an eye-opener,” noting it took “just days” to hit 10,000 votes.

Creators whose ideas become commercial products receive 1% of net sales,

One fan-favorite still awaiting approval is the Brooklyn Nine-Nine precinct set. Since its first design in 2021, it has gone up for vote three times, most recently garnering 20,000 builder supporters. Fans eagerly await a possible fourth round that could bring Holt’s office, the bullpen, the break room, and 11 iconic characters to LEGO’s lineup, joining sets like The Shire from The Lord of the Rings, Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton office, and Doofenshmirtz Incorporated Building from Phineas and Ferb which reached the review stage at the end of June.

Beyond LEGO Ideas, The LEGO Group also runs BrickLink, an online marketplace where users can buy, sell, and trade sets, parts, and minifigures. BrickLink’s Studio platform allows fans to upload original, non-licensed product designs — complete with building instructions — offering a creative outlet for the brand’s most passionate supporters. “This is another way to celebrate the amazing and creative fan community we have at The LEGO Group,” Pedersen says.

INVESTING IN FANDOM …

A more direct path to fan-backed success is bringing products straight to their wallets. Crowdfunding platforms abound,

Threadless honored Strawberry Shortcake with a Design Challenge in 2024 and printed these three fan-submitted designs. | Source: Threadless

but none is as renowned as Kickstarter. “We’ve always had fan-driven projects on Kickstarter, going back to early signature campaigns like the revival of Veronica Mars,” says Nick Yulman, director of outreach at Kickstarter.

The 2014 Veronica Mars film was funded by 91,585 backers, raising $5,702,153. It hit its goal in just 11 hours. Incentives started at $10, and it became the platform’s fastest project to hit $1 million — and then $2 million. The campaign launched on March 13, 2013; series creator Rob Thomas (no, not that one) completed the script by April 5.

Fan-favorite properties continue to find success on the platform, including Marvel, Back to the Future, and Harry Potter. It’s not just studio-backed projects. “There’s really been an explosion of interest in campaigns based on beloved IP,” Yulman says. He pointed to Skybound Entertainment, which broke Kickstarter records last year with its G.I. Joe comics compendium, then topped itself this year with a Transformers set that raised $4.6 million. “Kickstarter has really become a destination for many different fan communities to discover and back projects that wouldn’t come to life without their support. We see a lot of campaigns focused on fanbases in tabletop games, comics, and publishing — but also in collectibles, toys, film, and music,” he says.

Alex Mackey, founder of board game company Lethal Chicken Games, tried another crowdfunding platform, Crowdfundr, before fully committing to Kickstarter. “[The other service] did absolutely nothing and there wasn’t really a lot of other competition, either,” he adds, noting the platform had only six board games at the time. The company uses the platform as a point-of-sale.

Lethal Chicken Games is a twoperson operation. Mackey met his business partner, Mike Szalajko, while volunteering in Fort Myers, Florida, after Hurricane Irma. Within a few months, they had a working prototype of their first game, What The Film?!, shipped from China. It launched on Kickstarter in February 2018 and was fully funded in a week.

This May, the company successfully funded four new games with a single campaign. Little Pig Little Pig, Tortilla Takedown, Dice Batter, and What’s Under Your Bed? raised a total of $8,613 from 62 backers, enough to produce 12,000 games for retail.

Yulman says the Kickstarter team actively supports creators with their campaigns: “We help build on the momentum they bring to a launch, whether that’s through our robust recommendation engine or through features on our site, in newsletters, and on social media.”

The platform encourages creators to connect directly with their fans. “It’s common to see backers jump into the comments to ask creators about the design of their product and voice their opinions and wishes,” Yulman says.

Mackey sees engagement as part of his job. “I’ll comment on every single comment. I will answer every single request or email,” he says. “We actually had someone who was like, ‘Oh, it would be nice to see a PDF of the instructions.’ The next day — boom — here you go. Instructions for all four games. It took me a full day’s work to format everything, but it was worth it to serve fans and make them feel good about backing us.”

… FOR THE FUTURE

Despite once swearing off the platform, Lethal Chicken Games has returned

to Kickstarter repeatedly. “It doesn’t matter how good or clever it is, it’s still hard,” Mackey says of running crowdfunding campaigns. “I love Kickstarter, but I hate running Kickstarter campaigns.”

In June, Lethal Chicken prepared to launch Sketchy Doodles, a collaborative drawing game. The game’s creator, Nick Metlzer, described it as a “social deduction drawing game” that blends elements of The Chameleon and Pictionary. Metzler is an award-winning game designer behind more than 35 other published titles; he is also friends with Mackey. The game is inspired by his appearance on Hulu’s Got to Get Out, a reality competition series featuring reality TV veterans and average Joes. Mackey calls the collaboration “a perfect fit.”

Fans are excited. Comments on Instagram include, “Awesome game idea,” and “Epic!!!”

Ultimately, it’s fans who should decide what gets made. “Speak to fans where they already are,” Yulman advises. Mackey agrees — but emphasizes that finding that audience takes effort. “You’ve still got to build that fanbase somehow, [even if] it’s through getting a TikTok video to go viral,” he says.

It may take hustle, hashtags, and a little — or a lot of — luck, but fans are the reason these products — and more — come to be. And when fans show up, the world listens. ✪

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Katherine M. Hill is an associate editor at The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. Her favorite season is summer, and her favorite games are Candy Land, UNO, and Bananagrams. In the summer you can find her at the beach, in the garden, or enjoying a film mid-afternoon at the cinema.

Camping with Sasquatch, from Lethal Chicken Games, roared to life in the first two hours of its Kickstarter Campaign in 2018. | Source: Kickstarter

POPPED CULTURE

Popcorn buckets are the latest craze among collectors.

by Ashley Pelletier, associate editor

As fans geared up for the upcoming release of Dune: Part Two in Febraury 2024, it wasn’t the acting prowess of Timothée Chalamet or the return of Zendaya that had the internet buzzing — it was a limited-edition, exclusive popcorn bucket from AMC Theatres. A far cry from a traditional, disposable cardboard vessel that holds your popcorn, the Dune: Part Two collectible popcorn bucket featured a custom lid designed to look like the Shai-Hulud, the giant sandworm from the films. Moviegoers could reach a hand down the mouth of the worm lid to grab a handful of popcorn. The design was memorable, to say the least, causing the bucket

to earn viral fame, sparking countless internet memes and even a sketch on Saturday Night Live (SNL).

“It was fun to think about how to come up with it, but having it take on a life of its own was very unexpected,” says Marcus Gonzalez, creative director at Zinc Group, the creative company behind the bucket. “It going viral and becoming a skit on SNL and stuff, we didn’t see that coming at all.”

Since the Dune: Part Two bucket launched, fans have eagerly awaited stylized popcorn buckets for their favorite upcoming flicks. Theater chains nationwide are debuting exclusive popcorn buckets with creative designs that are functional and collectible.

POPPING ONTO THE TREND

The Dune: Part Two popcorn bucket might have started the viral craze surrounding popcorn buckets, but Cinemark noticed the items’ rising popularity more than a year and a half earlier, with the launch of its limited-edition bucket for the theatrical release of Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever

“We ordered a relatively small quantity [of popcorn buckets], which quickly flew off shelves,” says David Haywood, senior vice president of food and beverage at Cinemark. “This enthusiasm was really cemented, and we knew this trend had really taken on a life of its own with the launch of our extremely popular Scream VI Ghostface popcorn

Top: Stylized popcorn bucket designs, like the Gladiator II Colosseum popcorn bucket (left), which shows an augmented reality gladiator fight when you scan the QR code at the bottom, and the viral Dune: Part Two popcorn bucket (right) add to the movie-going experience. | Source: Cinemark/Zinc Group

tub in March 2023. The program was so successful that theaters sold out instantly, and we created our first online merchandise site to allow fans everywhere to preorder the popular vessel.”

Popcorn buckets have become a must-have collectible. Hoping to repeat the viral craze the Dune: Part Two bucket inspired, theater chains take to social media to announce their collectible buckets up to two months in advance, sparking a flutter of conversation that lasts for weeks until fans can get their hands on them.

“You can’t have a conversation around the explosion in popularity of collectible popcorn buckets without mentioning social media,” Haywood says. “As Instagram and TikTok make it easier for people to share experiences and make connections, we have seen guests pushing for more and more creative designs that lend to fun conversations online. And, of course, the more people post about their new movie swag, the more everyone else wants it.”

According to John Curry, senior vice president of commercial for Regal Cinemas, the theater chain goes in on exclusive popcorn buckets that bring a unique spark from a movie and have the same viral potential.

“We work well in advance on titles that are coming up and try to find something that’s very unique within that particular movie that we believe fans will gravitate to,” Curry says. “If there is a unique angle with the movie that we feel very passionate about, we’re going to pursue that with our studio partners and the third parties so that we can earn that opportunity for guests to say, ‘That was a cool part of the movie, and now I have a little bit of that to take home.’”

Designed by Zinc Group and released by Regal Cinemas, the Entity Vault popcorn bucket was released for Mission Impossible — The Final Reckoning in May. To fans’ delight, it features LED lights and opens up with an interlocking key, making it one of the most interactive popcorn buckets to date.

“That was actually a lot of fun,” Gonzalez says. “Everything was super secret, which is understandable. We ended up coming up with that Entity Vault, and then the art director spent the weekend putting together a 3D model, and we presented and everybody loved it. It was

"THE WHOLE MOVIE-GOING PROCESS IS ALL ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE. THESE PIECES ARE DEFINITELY MEANT TO COMPLEMENT THE EXCITEMENT AND THE JOY OF GOING AND SEEING [A MOVIE] ON THE BIG SCREEN. AND THAT’S WHY THESE THINGS JUST KEEP GETTING BIGGER AND BIGGER.”

- KATHY HOGAN, CREATIVE DIRECTOR, GOLDEN LINK

awesome to be able to come up with something like that.”

CREATING CULINARY COLLECTIBLES

The creation of these popcorn buckets can be an intense process. More than nine months before a movie is scheduled to release, movie studios reach out to designers, providing them with key artwork, plot points, and sometimes even clips from the movie to get creative juices flowing. From there, it is an ongoing dialogue between the studios and the designers that ends in a premium collectible that is fun to look at and eat out of.

“It’s up to our team to be quite clever with finding where the opening needs to be, that the piece is able to be used with popcorn, and that it holds a decent amount of popcorn,” says Kathy Hogan, creative director at Golden Link, another company that designs popcorn buckets. “But we also need to keep the brand integrity strong, and we don’t try to modify the film. It’s really important to stay true to the brand.”

Staying true to the brand pays off. When A Minecraft Movie came out in April, the Chicken Jockey moment blew up on social media, with fans throwing popcorn, clapping, and cheering in theaters all over the country. The Golden Link team stepped into the shoes of

Minecraft fans in preparation for the film, and they knew that Chicken Jockey had the potential to be wildly popular. So, they decided to launch a Chicken Jockey popcorn bucket.

“We try to identify with the film fan and we try to put ourselves in their position and seek out what fans might really be excited about,” Hogan says. “Chicken Jockey is something that came up very early on, and while it wasn’t a focus during our studio collaboration, the early window, it was something that we believed in. We believed that there would be a film fanbase for that item.”

Other times, movie studios know what they want out of a popcorn bucket early on in the process. In a speedy production process, Apple Studios brought Zinc Group 3D scans of the helmets from F1 The Movie, the Formula 1-inspired movie that came out in June.

“They were knocking on our door in March, which from a development window is very, very tight,” Gonzalez says. “It’s like having a baby from ideation to getting it into their hands — it’s a ninemonth [process]. Trying to compress that time is really challenging, but Apple really wanted to have that made, and they reached out to us and they wanted to be good partners. It was a lot of back and forth, a lot of weekends and late evenings working with factories and working with Apple, trying to get it to the finish line, but we did it. So there’s some pretty cool racing helmet buckets that are going to be coming out when the movie comes.”

Despite the long hours and the stress of making sure they are making the best product possible, the designers behind these popcorn buckets are also fans of the movie franchises that they are designing products for.

“Being a movie person and just a nerd overall, it’s a lot of fun to be able to work on stuff like that … It’s fun to get paid to daydream,” Gonzalez says.

FROM THE THEATER TO THE THEME PARK

Movie theaters are not the only places where popcorn buckets are popping off. Theme parks, including Disney Theme Parks and Universal Theme Parks, have been selling collectible popcorn buckets for park-going collectors for years. Now, they are launching more

popcorn buckets than ever.

“Our popcorn buckets at our theme parks have become more than snack containers — they’re collectible pieces of pop art,” says Justin LaFoe, global parks merchandise and retail officer at Universal Products & Experiences.

“From a T. rex inspired by the upcoming Jurassic World: Rebirth film to a talking, interactive Chucky from Halloween Horror Nights, each design brings our stories and characters to life, satisfying the hunger of our Universal theme park fans across the globe.”

Universal offers popcorn buckets for different types of fans, with options including a Time Turner popcorn bucket available in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a Toothless popcorn bucket available at Epic Universe, and a new plush popcorn bucket inspired by Bob the Minion’s teddy bear, Tim.

Theme park popcorn buckets have had their moments in the sun, too. In 2022, Disney launched a Figment popcorn bucket to celebrate Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary. The Figment-shaped popcorn buck et went viral, with fans waiting hours in line to snag the buck et at EPCOT, and videos of the purple dragon getting thousands of likes on Instagram and TikTok.

FORM OVER FUNCTION

chose to get a cup on the side and then the sipper. I never saw anybody eating or drinking out of any of that stuff. Even when I was at movie theaters when some of this stuff was out, I never saw anybody eating, just people that bought it and had it with them.”

Whether fans are headed to the parks or the movie theaters, one of the things that makes popcorn buckets such a

While these buckets are designed to hold popcorn as you embark on movie- or park-going adventures, some collectors never actually eat out of their buckets. The Dorky Viking, a longtime collector who goes by @tdv_collection on Instagram and owns several popcorn buckets from both the parks and theaters, says that popcorn buckets have become mostly for collecting and less for snacking.

“I rarely see people use their popcorn buckets,” The Dorky Viking says. “I was at Disney recently for May the 4th, and I barely saw anybody eating out of their popcorn buckets or even the Jawa sipper. I barely saw anybody drinking out of that. Everybody just

In a world before e-tickets and reserved seating, a ripped ticket commemorated a movie-going experience. Now, a specially designed popcorn bucket can mark the occasion instead. Seeing a movie on the big screen hits different, and it hits even better when you’re eating salty, buttery popcorn out of a fun container.

“The whole movie-going process is all about the experience,” Hogan says. “These pieces are definitely meant to complement the excitement and the joy of going and seeing [a movie] on the big screen. And that’s why these things just keep getting bigger and bigger. It’s part of that experience.”

Popcorn buckets are among the hottest, must-have, creative collectibles, whether they are designed to enhance your movie viewing, like the F1 Helmet and Entity Vault popcorn buckets, or be a plush pal for your park adventures, like the Despicable Me Tim popcorn bucket at Universal. | Source: Zinc Group/ Cinemark/Universal Theme Parks

great collectible is the same as any other token: the nostalgia factor.

“People collect popcorn buckets for that excitement and nostalgic feeling that you get when you’re watching something you like and grew up with,” The Dorky Viking says. “For example, when [Transformers: Rise of the Beasts] came out; we grew up with [Transformers]. How cool it is to eat right out of Optimus Prime, let alone just having a good time enjoying something you have a passion for.”

And for theme park goers, popcorn buckets can serve as souvenirs of a family vacation or an immersive fan experience. From pins and Loungefly backpacks to custom-built droids and lightsabers, popcorn buckets are among the most highly sought-after items at theme parks worldwide, especially since they are seasonal and offered in limited quantities. That’s probably why so few park guests actually want to eat out of them — they are just too valuable.

Whether you’re picking up a popcorn bucket at your local movie theater or a theme park, these unique collectibles provide a thrilling chase, a special memento, and, hopefully, a great story. And whether you take your popcorn plain, smothered in butter, or topped with special seasonings, a thoughtfully designed bucket is the perfect way to bring a little extra flavor to the staple snack. ✪

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ashley Pelletier is associate editor for The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book with a master’s in journalism from Quinnipiac University. When she isn’t writing her latest story, she is reading a fantasy novel or rewatching one of her three favorite TV shows over and over again. She’s also a big fan of showing people pictures of her two dogs and cat.

THE OFFICIAL WEDNESDAY COOKBOOK

RANDOM HOUSE WORLDS

Step into Nevermore Academy’s eerie kitchen with this Wednesday-inspired cookbook featuring 60 darkly delicious recipes. From pitch-black waffles to Morticia’s migas, it offers a variety of recipes and hosting tips for your own Rave’N Ball feast.

MSRP: $32

Available: mass retailers

MARVEL FANTASTIC FOUR VS. GALACTUS CONSTRUCTION FIGURE

THE LEGO GROUP

Galactus is hungry, but the Fantastic Four aren’t having it. This action-packed LEGO set features Mr. Fantastic’s stretchy legs, Human Torch’s firepower, Invisible Woman’s shields, and The Thing’s brute strength — all battling the towering planet-eater.

MSRP: $59.99

Available: mass retailers

From spooky to sparkly, this summer proves one thing: If it exists, it can be merch — gotta buy it all!

FREDDY FAZBEAR CABLE GUY ORIGINAL EXG PRO

This Five Nights at Freddy’s Cable Guy features Freddy Fazbear in strik ing detail, ready to guard your devices with a mischievous edge. Perfect for fans wanting to add a little spooky flair to their space.

MSRP: £29.99 | Available: exgpro.com

THE SIMPSONS KING HOMER

FEATURE

PLUSH

JAKKS PACIFIC

Looming 16 inches tall, this Simpsons plush blends soft faux fur with a detailed roto-molded head. It arrives in custom packaging inspired by “Treehouse of Horror III,” making it a frightfully fun collector’s piece.

MSRP: $29.99

Available: Walmart

CARE BEARS X WICKED

2-PACK BOXED SET

BASIC FUN!

This Care Bears x Wicked 2-Pack includes

GEN CON GELATINOUS CUBE FEMME T-SHIRT

ROLLACRIT

with Gengar’s eerie grin. Outfitted with premium trucks and wheels, it’s perfect for cruising under the moonlight or leveling up your display.

MSRP: $299.99

Available: pokemoncenter.com (September)

This T-Shirt oozes with quirky charm — and maybe a symbiotic personality ready to absorb your wardrobe and steal your heart. Perfect for playful, geeky style. It’s available in sizes small-3XL.

MSRP: $35 | Available: rollacrit.com

DISNEY X TOUCHLAND HAND SANITIZER

TOUCHLAND

This collab pairs the company’s Wild Watermelon hand sanitizer with a Mickey Mouse Mist Case, blending fragrance with Disney design in one collectible package.

MSRP: $20 | Available: touchland.com

LEGO X THE SIMPSONS: KRUSTY BURGER THE LEGO GROUP

Fans can build Springfield’s iconic fast-food spot with detailed interiors and a drive-through. It includes Homer, Bart, Lisa, and more minifigures, perfect for anyone who is planning to bring

MSRP: $209.99 | Available: LEGO.com

UNIQLO MICKEY FACES APPAREL

UNIQLO

This collection celebrates Mickey Mouse through designs crafted by Disney artists worldwide. It honors the legacy of the iconic character across generations.

MSRP: $24.90 | Available: Uniqlo

MARVEL THE THING 1:10-SCALE COLLECTIBLE WITH SCENE (FANTASTIC FOUR NO. 642)

MCFARLANE TOYS

Inspired by the Fantastic Four No. 642 cover, this 1:10-scale collectible comes with an environmental base, a backdrop scene, and an art card featuring character artwork and a comic synopsis. It’s ready for Marvel display shelves.

MSRP: $29.99 | Available: mass retailers

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES CLONE TROOPER (501ST LEGION) ELECTRONIC HELMET

HASBRO

Step into the Star Wars galaxy with this Black Series Clone Trooper helmet, inspired by Ahsoka Tano. It features premium detailing and voice distortion — just add AAA batteries and pair with your best Clone Trooper stance.

MSRP: $99.99 | Available: GameStop

BLDR CRUNCHYROLL YUJI ITADORI JAZWARES

Build and pose Yuji Itadori from Jujutsu Kaisen with this 298-piece BLDR set. Standing 10 inches tall with 19 points of articulation and a Black Flash accessory, it’s compatible with BLDR pieces for versatility.

MSRP: $19.99 | Available: Amazon, Target

JAWS 50TH ANNIVERSARY GLITTER GLOBE

THE BRADFORD EXCHANGE

This officially licensed JAWS water globe re-creates the film’s explosive finale, complete with the Orca wreckage, yellow barrels, and a 3D logo. Inside, the shark rises with an air tank and glitter swirls with a shake.

MSRP: $69.99 | Available: bradfordexchange.com (preorder)

THE LOYAL SUBJECTS

Roll out with the M.A.S.K. Mobile Defense Unit. This set includes the big rig with working action features and comes with Matt Trakker and Bruce Sato, plus exclusive Scott Trakker and T-Bob figures. Premium painted details complete this collector-grade release.

MSRP: $175 | Available: BigBadToyStore, theloyalsubjects.com

RAINBOW BRITE PLUSH THROW BLANKET

JAY FRANCO

Add vibrant charm to your space with this super-soft throw featuring Rainbow Brite. Its colorful design brings nostalgic magic and cozy comfort to any movie marathon.

MSRP: $24.99 | Available: Amazon

CLUELESS COLLECTION

MATTEL

We’re totally buggin’— it’s been 30 years since Clueless? Celebrate with Barbie, American Girl, Little People (pictured), and an UNO Fandom deck. From Cher’s plaid perfection to Dionne’s top-hat realness, this anniversary collection is a full-on Betty moment.

MSRP: $12-75 | Available: mass retailers

4D BUILD — STAR WARS C-3PO & R2-D2 SET

SPIN MASTER

Construct Star Wars history in 4D. This kit features detailed, movie-accurate designs and includes punch tools, display stands, and glue for a sturdy finish.

MSRP: $39.99

Available: Amazon, Walmart (Fall)

BARBIE MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE PRINCESS OF POWER SHE-RA MATTEL

For She-Ra’s 40th anniversary, the Princess of Power joins the Barbie universe for the first time. Decked out in her classic battle look — cape, boots, and sword — this heroic doll is ready to defend Eternia.

MSRP: $55

Available: mattelcreations.com

MARVEL

STUDIOS THE FANTASTIC FOUR EARRING SET

GIRLS CREW

Channel Marvel’s first family with this earring set, featuring studs inspired by each hero’s signature power. Stretch, shimmer, scowl, and blaze — these subtle accessories bring bold energy to any outfit.

MSRP: $68 | Available: shopgirlscrew.com

MARVEL SO YOU’VE BEEN BITTEN BY A RADIOACTIVE SPIDER CHRONICLE BOOKS

This illustrated survival guide from Marvel and Daniel Kibblesmith preps you for everyday super-problems — gamma exposure, Skrull sightings, Doombots, and Flerken encounters. Packed with comicstested advice, it’s your handbook for thriving in heroic chaos.

MSRP: $16.95

Available: chroniclebooks.com (October)

BATMAN VS. JOKER NEMESIS BOOKEND BUST

BEDROCK COLLECTIBLES

This limited-edition resin bust splits into two premium bookends — Batman on one side, Joker on the other. Inside? A hidden comic art collage. These bookends are numbered for collectors with only 500 available.

MSRP: $329.99

Available: Bedrock Collectibles, BigBadToyStore, HMV Canada

DC SUPER POWERS FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE SUPERMAN’S HEADQUARTERS (SUPERMAN MOVIE)

MCFARLANE TOYS

This DC Super Powers collectible recreates Superman’s Fortress of Solitude with retro details. Featuring Kryptonian crystals, terminals, a chair, and a console, it’s a stylized tribute to the hero’s cinematic hideaway from the DC Studios film.

MSRP: $39.99 | Available: mass retailers

STAR WARS: AHSOKA CAPTAIN ENOCH HELMET

DENUO NOVO

MARVEL DOORABLES ACTION PEEK JUST PLAY

The Captain Enoch Helmet from Star Wars: Ahsoka features a glossy white shell, a gold Kintsugi-inspired mask, distressed Empire logos, and adjustable padding, faithfully capturing Grand Admiral Thrawn’s Night Trooper look.

MSRP: $700

Available: denuonovo.com (preorder)

Unbox tiny heroes and villains with big sparkle in the Marvel Doorables Action Peek. Each capsule holds four 1.5-inch figures with glittery eyes and action poses, plus a display-ready diorama backdrop for extra flair.

MSRP: $9.99

Available: mass retailers

The final Mustafar battle scene in Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith, the pan across Jurassic Park as audiences see the dinosaurs for the first time, and almost every anime duel ever all sound better when there’s no risk of buffering or interruption from ads. With this (and so much more) in mind, fans are returning to physical media like vinyl records to immortalize their favorite characters, scenes, and musical interludes. Or, they’re in tune with their inner Lilo (of Lilo & Stitch) and just want to be left “alone to die” as a record turns nearby. When it comes to adding a pop culture-inspired vinyl to your collection, companies know it’s about form as much as function. Fandom-inspired records often include art with Easter eggs, exclusive images, and impressive designs that make the listener feel like they’re exploring their favorite brands in a new way.

Whether fans purchase vinyl records at an independent record store, from the vinyl manufacturer, or at a larger retailer, they’re almost guaranteed a constant stream of their favorite music and a thoughtfully designed collectible.

RECORD RESURGENCE

While streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music provide recognizable songs like Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’s “Hedwig’s Theme” at a moment’s notice, physical records provide a more intimate, comforting, and dependable way for people to connect with their favorite fandoms.

Even if fans aren’t record collectors themselves, they’ve likely noticed the semi-recent resurgence of vinyl through expanded offerings at mass retail locations, greater attention to Record Store Day (April 12), and the growing number of general and limited-edition record offerings. Barnes & Noble debuted its record section in 2014, known as The Vinyl Store, and it’s been growing ever since.

“We saw this trend beginning even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but when the pandemic hit we saw a huge

surge in popularity [in vinyl purchases] as people sought comfort in nostalgia and activities that they could do at home,” says Crissi Bariatti, senior merchandise manager of music and video at Barnes & Noble. “That time period created a lot of vinyl fans, who are still collecting vinyl to this day.”

At Mutant Records, supporting the growing interest in records as physical media from younger fans (and the maintained love from older listeners) is not just a task, but a mission — literally. The record design and manufacturing company’s mission statement reads that they “aim to celebrate the served and underserved areas of pop culture to be a reminder that physical media is not dead.” The team designs records featuring the soundtracks for film and TV shows, such as The Monkey and Over the Garden Wall, with attention to detail that fans will appreciate.

“First and foremost, we’re both fans … being in fandom helps us create things for fandoms. You can only really make something that adds to its presence out in the world if you are into it. Otherwise, it’s just a cynical kind of cash grab,” says

Fans can immortalize moments with Mutant’s Sinners Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (top), Mondo’s Flow — Original Motion Picture Soundtrack 2XLP (middle), and Barnes & Noble’s exclusive Blade [Original Score] [DLX] [Bloodbath Vinyl] (bottom).

Source: Mutant/Mondo/Barnes & Noble

Spencer Hickman, Mutant’s creative director and co-founder.

Mo Shafeek, Mutant’s other creative director and co-founder, adds that creating fandom-inspired vinyls is “really just because it is a format that we love and it’s a bigger canvas for art, but really we just want to be able to have people have the music because studios are not really doing any physical anything anymore.”

Both directors noted that it can become difficult to access the scores and soundtracks behind your favorite fandoms. Movies and music from films, series, and even video games might not be uploaded online in high quality, and projects on streaming platforms can easily be removed, denying fans access. Hickman mentions, “I think fandom is a beautiful thing. It should be celebrated,” and it’s easier to celebrate when fans have 24/7 access to iconic scores via records. Plus, it helps when it doubles as a shelf-worthy collectible.

SLEEVES, SPECIAL EFFECTS, AND SUPERIOR ART

Translating a lengthy movie or multiseason show into a collectible vinyl is not an easy task. Creators must consider the color (and sometimes special effects) of the vinyl, the shape, disc images, sleeve designs, potential inserts, and more. Sometimes, records might house different liquids, like the milky white substance featured in Bad World’s viral Saltburn

Bath Water Edition LP.

These design choices must accurately reflect the content, representing multiple themes throughout a single brand. Plus, the packaging needs to look great on the shelf (and the record should look amazing while spinning).

LP, collectible, and poster manufacturer Mondo incorporates more than just the movement of a record spin with Flow — Original Motion Picture Soundtrack 2XLP ($45), available to preorder now. This product features the Mona Lisa effect; when fans tilt the vinyl, the cat’s big black eyes appear to move. This small detail pays homage to the film’s unique animation and lack of dialogue, as the characters’ expressions and specific sounds do the talking.

“What might seem like a minor detail to most can take multiple revisions to get right,” explains Cameron Dean, record label manager at Mondo. “It can be a lengthy process, but it’s always the best feeling ever to know you got it right, so I’m grateful for the lore experts of the world that make us go back for ‘one more revision.’”

Mutant’s Star Wars: Episode III — Re venge of the Sith record ($50), which was announced in June as part of a celebra tion of the film’s 20th anniversary, em anates a different kind of flow. Fans will notice that the lava-colored vinyl looks like the hot flowing element that served as Anakin and Obi-Wan’s

battle stage and helped turn the young Jedi Knight into a vengeful Sith Lord. While there are only 3,000 lava-colored records available, fans can also find a black vinyl edition. Both editions are available to preorder now with an anticipated Oct. 3 release.

The company’s other recent vinyl launches include the Sinners Original Motion Picture Score and Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. Both albums, available to preorder now on 2x 140gm color vinyl, encapsulate the blues-, gospel-, and folk-driven nature of Ryan Coogler’s film. The soundtrack ($45) comes pressed on one blue and one red vinyl, connected through wisps of a darker color, representing twins Smoke and Stack. It features Preacher Boy’s (Miles Caton) generation-binding song “I Lied to You” and more.

EARWORM EXCLUSIVES

Some records are only available in limited quantities, making them hard to secure, but variants that are exclusive to specific retailers make things even more

Mondo’s World of Warcraft: 20 Years of Music 4XLP (left) and JAWS 50th Anniversary (right) vinyls both feature unique artwork. | Source: Mondo

they select their favorite design or buy every edition to secure a complete set.

Barnes & Noble offers different versions of the same record within its own stores as a way to expand its assortment and get creative. “These exclusives are often limited-edition color variants, but we also love to get creative with our vendor partners to bring other special features like alternate covers, premium art inserts, signed copies, or picture discs,” Bariatti says.

Bariatti also noted that, in light of Peanuts’ 75th Anniversary, some exclusive items are in store this fall. For Snoopy enthusiasts who favor streaming services, a record player may be on an upcoming list of purchases.

Fans can also search for specific details when building their collection of exclusive spins. According to Dean, “Insider secret for anyone looking for the ‘rarest’ version of Mondo releases: It’s usually the black or solid-color variant.”

KEEP ON SPINNIN’

Fans can expect their vinyl collections to grow with new titles and smooth sounds. Avid gamers in particular should keep an eye — and ear — out for new Mondo records featuring music that elevates epic battle sequences or provides tranquil notes for planting, cooking, and other simple-yet-satisfying tasks.

“While we like to explore different types of genres, and don’t really specialize in just one — I can say that the genre we’ve seen the most growth and demand for, has been video game music,” Dean says. “We’ve been actively expanding that portion of our repertoire, and I think

fans of the genre will be pretty stoked about what we have in the pipeline over the next few months and years.”

The company’s recent World of Warcraft: 20 Years of Music 4XLP ($90) is a perfect example — it includes four exclusive colored records housed in slipcases that showcase detailed art inspired by the online game. Recorded live at the Théâtre de Beaulieu in Lausanne, Switzerland, the music features a 190-performer ensemble and more than 10 songs.

be the reason why.

“We love recommendations. There is no one reading our social media except us,” Hickman says. “We are the people digging into our Instagram, Facebook messages … even if you don’t know what it is or you’re not into it, it’s interesting seeing what people are asking for and how many people are asking for it.”

With companies like Mutant, Mondo, and more dedicated to delivering double-sided discs, fans’ favorite scenes can gain new life with each stylus drop. Listeners might even discover something new about the fandom years after the record first meets the turntable.

If your video game console or computer collects dust while your AMC membership sees constant use, you’re also in for new records that will scratch that musical itch. Mondo’s upcoming Superman, The Last of Us Season 2, and JAWS 50th Anniversary records will be perfect post-movie going purchases. Cinema experts can soon experience a clear stream of John Williams’ haunting score at home (toothy antagonist not included).

FANDOM FAVORITES FOREVER

For media that doesn’t yet have a pressed counterpart, there’s a chance it will come down the line, and fans could

When Mutant’s Shafeek designs records, his passion infiltrates the projects. While creating these film, show, and video game extensions, he expresses, “I got to really make something that feels so special that 10 years from now someone will notice an Easter egg that they didn’t even know that they were looking for.” While waiting for the next musical addition, fans should look through their records’ sleeves and artwork — there might be something they missed. ✪

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Samantha Connell is an associate editor for The Pop Insider, The Toy Book, and The Toy Insider. She loves to write, craft, and play with her adorable dog, Willow. She is a Ravenclaw, Star Wars fan (prequels included), and Clemson alumna. She also thinks that she is the favorite aunt.

Fans can find their favorite soundtracks in vinyl form at Barnes & Noble brick-and-mortar locations. | Source: Barnes & Noble

Mutant’s Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith record will be released in the fall. Source: Mutant

HALO: MISSION COMMAND UPPER DECK

Embark on new action-packed missions by collecting weapons, vehicles, and locations from the Halo franchise. Players must finish the fight by playing cards that utilize their inventory to hinder their opponents’ missions.

MSRP: $19.99 | Available: upperdeckstore.com

HUNTERXHUNTER: THE 287TH EXAMS KESS CO.

Do you have what it takes to get your Hunter License? Play as Gon, Killua, Kurapika, Leorio, or Hisoka and progress through the exams, unlock unique skills, and earn more dice to defeat challenges.

MSRP: $50

Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, specialty retailers

Whether you prefer fandom-fueled fun or reimagined classics, it’s time to take a chance and roll a double on the hottest new games.

COSMOLANCER

HASBRO

As freelance space photographers — aka Cosmolancers — players must strategically place Photo Op tiles and stay alert for cosmic dangers that can sabotage their shots. Earn the most Interstellar Credits over three rounds to win the game.

MSRP: $29.99

Available: Amazon, Atomic Empire, Hasbro Pulse, Target

TWISTED CRYPTIDS UNSTABLE GAMES

As a Cryptid, each player can become a true legend by navigating their love-hate relationship with humans and outwitting their fellow Cryptids. They can expose their true selves at a price or sabotage humans by planting decoys and staging hoaxes.

MSRP: $20 | Available: mass retailers

STAR WARS VILLAINOUS: COLD TACTICS

RAVENSBURGER

In a galaxy far, far away, players work toward their sinister objectives by helping Grand Admiral Thrawn control planets in the name of the Galactic Empire or assisting Count Dooku in leading the Separatist Movement against it.

MSRP: $19.99

Available: Target (exclusive version), other mass retailers (August)

POPPY PLAYTIME FACTORY FRENZY

MOOSE GAMES

A hug a day won’t keep this monster away. Inspired by Poppy Playtime, players must escape by moving four pieces out through the exits and grabbing a special coin toy before Huggy Wuggy gets them.

MSRP: $19.99

Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

THE OP GAMES

Sanrio gets even sweeter in this reimagined Candy Land board. Play as Hello Kitty, My Melody, and more as they journey through places like the caramel-coated LittleTwinStars Dream Farm and Keroppi’s Macaroon Lilypad Pond.

MSRP: $29.99 | Available: theop.games

POKÉMON

TRADING CARD GAME:

MEGA EVOLUTION ELITE TRAINER BOX

THE POKÉMON CO.

Trainers can catch ‘em all with the return of Mega Evolution Pokémon like Mega Lucario ex and Mega Gardevoir ex. Players and collectors can expand their sets with powerful Pokémon, new artwork, and more.

MSRP: $49.99 | Available: mass and specialty retailers (Sept. 26)

A SPACE ODYSSEY | THE BOARD GAME

MAESTRO MEDIA

Relive the sci-fi adventures of 2001: A Space Odyssey by fighting for survival after HAL sabotages the mission to Jupiter. One player controls HAL while crew members try to save the mission by completing three logic sequences.

MSRP: $29.99 | Available: specialty retailers

WHO KNOWS MARVEL BEST? SKILLMATICS

Which Infinity Stone is inside the Tesseract? Test your superhero knowledge with a fastpaced trivia game featuring questions about Marvel characters, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and more.

MSRP: $29.97

Available: Amazon, skillmaticsworld.com

TAMAGOTCHI COLLECTIONS KESS CO.

Can you make these Tamagotchi pets happy? Players roll dice to feed, play with, and care for their quirky friends. Prove you’re the best player and caretaker by hosting the happiest characters and scoring the most points.

MSRP: $30 | Available: Amazon, specialty retailers (August)

CHUCKY: THE GAME ENDLESS GAMES

It’s kill or be killed. Players can find a hiding spot or push their luck with the knife-wielding Chucky unit. If players can’t work together, Chucky will transfer his soul and escape the toy store.

MSRP: $19.99 | Available: Amazon, Calendar Club (August)

HITSTER GUILTY PLEASURES JUMBO GROUP

Your guilty pleasures will blow out the speakers in a new edition of Hitster that brings more than 300 new cards featuring catchy tunes like “U Can’t Touch This,” “Call Me Maybe,” and “Love Story.”

MSRP: $19.99

Available: Amazon, Walmart

HEROQUEST JOE

MANGANIELLO’S THE CRYPT OF PERPETUAL DARKNESS QUEST PACK HASBRO

With 10 quests designed by Joe Manganiello, players will venture into darkness, vanquish foes, and encounter allies. This expansion includes a metallic dragon, eight dice, 20 cards, and more. The HeroQuest Game System is required (sold separately).

MSRP: $34.99

Available: Amazon, Entertainment Earth, Hasbro Pulse

TETRIS: THE BOARD GAME SPIN MASTER

Celebrate more than 40 years of Tetris with a board game in which players drop tetrominoes on their boards to create lines, block opponents, and score points.

MSRP: $19.99

Available: Amazon, Walmart (Fall)

HUNT A KILLER: THE HAUNTING AT WICKER RIDGE RELATABLE

Help ghost hunters Sam and Colby bring peace to Wicker Ridge by becoming a paranormal investigator. Players will use realistic clues and evidence to identify the haunting and banish it from the world.

MSRP: $29.99

THE SIMS BOARD GAME

GOLIATH

Sul Sul! Whether outrunning Grim or aiming for successful careers, players can experience endless possibilities as they explore familiar venues, connect with iconic Sims, and achieve their aspirations to win the game.

MSRP: $19.99

VINTAGE BOOKSHELF EDITIONS

WS GAME CO.

Classic games get a makeover as fabric-wrapped books with a homey vibe. Gamers can play, collect, and display these leveled-up versions of Risk, Trouble, Guess Who?, and more.

MSRP: $52 (Risk); $47 (Guess Who?, Trouble) | Available: Amazon, Walmart

Available: Amazon, Target (August)

MONOPOLY: X!MEN ‘97

THE OP GAMES

To me, my X-Men gamers. In this Monopoly edition inspired by X-Men ‘97, players can buy, sell, and trade to build their ultimate mutant team with characters like Wolverine, Jean Grey, Magneto, Morph, and Cable.

MSRP: $44.99 | Available: theop.games

DAGGERHEART

DARRINGTON PRESS

Can you wield the forces of your hope and fear? This heroic fantasy role-playing guide uses a unique 2d12 system for players and gamemasters to create dynamic characters, design memorable encounters, and explore fantastic settings.

MSRP: $59.99

Available: Amazon, criticalrole.com

NEXT-GEN NEWS

Embark on a Heroic Quest with Horrified: Dungeons & Dragons Edition

Gather your friends to embark on a heroic board game journey. Ravensburger’s fifth edition of the Horrified series uses elements from Wizards of the Coast’s role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons (D&D).

Players can venture through the Forgotten Realms and work together to survive and thrive. Teams will gather items to help them on their journey, save people, and take on monsters together. Each monster encounter features a puzzle for the team to solve before battling, so players will have to put their minds together to emerge victorious. Each player takes on a unique role with special abilities and gameplay options, creating new experiences with each replay.

The Horrified: Dungeons & Dragons board game will launch worldwide on Aug. 1, but fans can preorder it now at Target. ✪

Join Dr. Seuss’ Characters for Circle Time This Summer

Fans of classic Dr. Seuss books can now enjoy “Dr. Seuss Circle Time,” a new video series on Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ YouTube channel. While the channel features other shows for families to enjoy, the series brings the fun of a Dr. Seuss story to a new medium.

The eight-week-long summertime takeover will help families in a learning groove while school’s out. The show supports early childhood education with singing, dancing, interactive play, and storytelling. It offers a mix of classic stories with fresh, musical, modern, and entertaining twists.

With hosts Ziggy and Tizzie and appearances by various Dr. Seuss characters, each 30-minute episode will consist of music, games, and activities. New episodes will be available every Friday. ✪

Mattel Launches New Hot Wheels Inspired by ‘F1 The Movie’

Mattel, Apple Original Films, and Warner Bros. Pictures partnered to launch a limited-edition Hot Wheels replica of the Formula 1 car from the film. Driven by Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), the model racecar features the fictional Apex Grand Prix team’s black-and-gold livery and his character’s No. 7. It also comes with Hayes’ helmet, three sets of tires, a tire storage rack, and a special Kar Keepers clamshell case. The replica is available now at mattelcreations.com. To learn more about the movie, which hit theaters last month, visit f1themovie.com. ✪

Hasbro

Source: Ravensburger

Source: Dr. Seuss Enterprises

Source: Mattel

MICKEY MOUSE’S ROCKET SPACE ADVENTURE PLAYMOBIL

Blast off with Mickey Mouse in this playset. Kids can open the rocket door, place Mickey inside to get ready for liftoff, then count down with the numbered stackers.

MSRP: $14.99 | Available: Amazon (August)

JAKKS PACIFIC

This chic, pink pickleball set comes complete with two paddles, a ball, and a net. Its design makes it easy to transport and set up anywhere for a game of pickleball with some Barbie flair.

MSRP: $39.99 | Available: Walmart

The Latest Fandom Fun for Younger Fans

FORTNITE BACKPACKS

ACCESSORY INNOVATIONS

This collection of Fortnite-themed bags, backpacks, and accessories debuted with the Yellow Peely Mini Backpack, which features a 10.5-inch pebble finish, two storage pockets, a zipper coin case, and adjustable nylon straps. Three 17-inch Fortnite backpacks will join the line in August.

Available: Sam’s Club (Yellow Peely Mini Backpack, now); walmart.com (17-inch backpacks, August)

LIMITED EDITION PEANUTS TAMAGOTCHI NANO WITH SILICONE BASE

BANDAI NAMCO TOYS & COLLECTIBLES AMERICA

Good grief! This limited-edition Tamagotchi celebrates 75 years of Peanuts with a comic-book party theme. Kids can feed, play with, and care for Snoopy and look out for 12 special comic strip scenes that appear every hour. It comes in a silicone case styled to look like Snoopy’s red doghouse.

MSRP: $40 | Available: Bandai stores, consumer events

HARRY POTTER FIGBANDS — SERIES 1 JAZWARES

Show off your love of the Wizarding World in style with these two-in-one figures. These wearable accessories add a whimsical, magical touch to your outfit, bookshelf, or broomstick. Kids can collect 12 Harry Potter characters in the first series.

MSRP: $5.99 | Available: Fall

ULTRA PRO ENTERTAINMENT

Using AI-powered motion detection, this game recognizes players’ movements as they crawl, jump, and battle through 30 action-packed training missions. Guided by iconic Marvel characters, kids complete challenges, earn collectible tokens, and track their progress on the Hero Map.

MSRP: $27.99 | Available: Amazon

SKIBIDI TOILET 6-INCH DELUXE ACTION FIGURES

BONKERS TOYS

This line of Skibidi Toilet action figures features four characters to collect. The first collection includes members of the Alliance looking to take on the Skibidi Toilets.

MSRP: $19.99

Available: mass retailers

DISNEY DOODLES

IGLOO BOOKS

Learn how to draw characters from the worlds of Disney and Pixar. This book sets up budding artists with a sketchpad, a drawing pencil, a marker pen, an eraser, a sharpener, and six coloring pencils.

MSRP: $16.99 | Available: Amazon

SUPERMAN KAIJU SLIME BATTLE

SPIN MASTER

It’s the ultimate clash of hero and monster. The set comes with a 12-inch Kaiju and a 6-inch Superman action figure. Superman comes equipped with punching action to take on the mighty Kaiju, who fights back with fierce claw-swiping moves. When the Kaiju is defeated, kids can unleash a blue slime explosion from its chest.

MSRP: $29.99 | Available: mass retailers

MONOPOLY: HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON EDITION HASBRO

Take off on an adventure with this HTTYD version of your family’s favorite board game. Step into the boots of Hiccup, Astrid, Ruffnut, and Tuffnut and live your Viking dreams, pay with fish for dragon species lessons, train dragons, and compete in Viking challenges.

DISNEY/PIXAR THE ART OF ELIO CHRONICLE BOOKS

This book highlights the film’s artwork — including character designs, storyboards, color scripts, and more — alongside exclusive interviews with the creative team and behind-the-scenes details of the out-ofthis-world adventure.

MSRP: $45

with four 25-sheet pads in four different character designs. Take your creativity out of this world.

MSRP: $14.99

Available: Amazon, Walmart

Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

NARUTO INFINITE TSUKUYOMI CAPSULE

PMI KIDS’ WORLD

Inspired by the Infinite Tsukuyomi moon, each mystery capsule includes a collectible mini figure, a character-specific accessory, a display platform, and an endless looping panel that re-creates the Infinite Tsukuyomi illusion. There are eight characters to collect, including an exclusive figure found only in this series.

MSRP: $7.97

Available: Walmart (August)

DISNEY BABY COLLECTION GROUND UP

These little kicks are perfect whether you’re out in the backyard or hitting the Disney Parks. These durable baby shoes are available in Mickey Mouse (pictured) or Minnie Mouse styles in sizes 0-12 months.

MSRP: $12 | Available: Target

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT POP TARTS

RELATABLE

Snuggle up with your favorite comfort food. This set of five plushies turns different flavors of the lovable toaster treats into soft, huggable emotional support pals.

MSRP: $16.99

Available: Amazon (October)

INCREDIBLE SQUISHI TOYS

INCREDIBLE GROUP

Squeeze into sensory bliss with brands like ICEE, Ring Pop, Sour Patch Kids, OREO, Swedish Fish, PEEPS, and Bazooka (pictured). Kids can squish, stretch, and collect these toys based on the original scents, colors, and packaging design of the sweet treats that inspired them.

MSRP: $6.99-9.99

Available: Walmart, specialty retailers

DISNEY PIXAR: LOOK AND FIND 3D PI KIDS

Grab the included 3D glasses and join Lightning McQueen, Woody, Nemo, and more Pixar friends on a 3D adventure. Readers will uncover more than 100 hidden objects and characters.

MSRP: $10.99 | Available: mass retailers

SKIBIDI TOILET INFLATABLE COSTUME

RUBIE’S COSTUME CO.

It’s giving chaos. This over-the-top look includes an inflatable toilet that transforms kids into the star of their favorite memes. The included snood completes the look.

MSRP: $45.99-50.99 | Available: Amazon

FURBY DJ FURBY RAINBOW HASBRO

DJ Furby is a whole vibe with music, games, lights, jokes, and more. With five modes and more than 1,000 possible play combinations, kids can create custom music, remix, and hear Furby songs; chill with yoga moves; watch light shows; play more than 20 games and activities; and more. DJ Furby can even interact with 2023 Furby, Furblets, and other DJ Furby toys to truly party.

MSRP: $69.99 | Available: Amazon, Walmart

by Stephanie Szulborski, editorial assistant

Parents and kids who love all things superheroes are in for a fun summer treat, as Marvel Studios Animation and Atomic Cartoons team up for a spinoff of the Disney Junior series Spidey and His Amazing Friends. Just like its predecessor, the new show Iron Man and His Awesome Friends reminds viewers that teamwork makes the dream work.

The new show features a young Tony Stark (Iron Man) who takes center stage alongside fellow super geniuses Riri Williams (Ironheart) and Amadeus Cho (Iron Hulk). The series is the first Iron Man installment geared toward a younger, preschool audience, but with an earworm of a theme song by Mark Hoppus from blink-182, grown-ups will also enjoy following the super team as they work together to make their city a better place for everyone.

ARMOR UP!

In the new series, each member has a special Iron suit and gear to aid them in their missions, like Iron Man’s NanoShield, Ironheart’s Heartbeat Bubble forcefield, and Iron Hulk’s Iron Boom clap and Iron Hulk Stomp. Under guidance from their superpowered android, Vision, they operate from their beachfront headquarters, the Iron Quarters (IQ). Gamma, the team’s adorable pup who comes with her own Iron Pup suit, also joins the crew

on their adventures.

The benefits of having a series like this are simple: It’s a kid-friendly entry point into the Marvel universe that also teaches important lessons about friendship, teamwork, and personal growth.

“Something we really championed with the support of Marvel and Disney Jr. was being able to tell stories where our heroes could make mistakes,” says Sean Coyle, executive producer for and His Awesome Friends and they make mistakes all the time. So, having our characters show a vulnerable side when messing up, but then finding the strength to overcome, is one of my favorite takeaways. Also, celebrating friendship is a huge theme in our show. Our main cast of heroes are just kids who love each other and want to make each day the best it can be.”

MAKING IRON MAN

KID-FRIENDLY

For those who have read the comics or binged everything avail able in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Iron Man’s story includes some adult themes, villains, and challenges that might be a bit scary for younger fans.

While the series will shift away from the canon and focus more on an episodic adventure series that’s easier for preschoolers to digest, it’ll still keep true to Iron Man’s character as a hero.

work with the Disney Jr. team to come up with relatable story lines for preschoolers, while still remaining true to the essence

SUPER-POWERED MERCH

Fans know that along with any Marvel content comes superhero-worthy merch, and the preschool content is no exception. Master toy partner Hasbro shared

Toy Fair back in early March. From action figures to two-in-one mech suit vehicles to interactive playsets, the line is sure to

new episodes and ready to create their

product designers make entire toy lines

much can change before the show airs, it might be difficult to keep

associate principal product designer at Hasbro, says it

“We work closely to make sure

we get sketching, throw around a bunch of ideas, and once we’re all on the same

“We create blueprints, pick colors, test

the drawing board if something doesn’t work. The whole thing can take up to a year. And in the end, the toy that was in our head is now on the shelf in a store.”

In developing the toy designs, designers often get sneak peeks of the show so that they can design the toys as close to the characters’ designs as possible. Fisher mentions that the process can be a bit of a balancing act: “We’re lucky enough to get an early look so we can start designing while the show’s still being made. But that also means things can change — like a costume design or a character’s role. So, sometimes we have to make quick pivots. It keeps us on our toes, but it’s also part of the fun!” With a brand new Iron Man show and toy line, the rest of the year is looking Marvel-ous for the franchise’s future fans.

Iron Man and His Awesome Friends is gearing up to be a fun series (with a little educational bonus) that inspires kids to embrace their uniqueness while positively contributing to their communities. Coyle hopes that kids come away from the show feeling that they can be heroes, no matter their strengths or weaknesses.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, what you look like, or even if you have a superpowered armored suit or not,” he says. “What makes you a hero is what’s on the inside, and I want kids to know they all carry something truly awesome inside. As a parent, that’s really important to me.”

Fans can catch the premiere of Iron Man and His Awesome Friends on Aug. 11 on Disney Jr. The first 10 episodes of the series will be available on Disney Jr. on Demand and Disney+ on Aug. 12. ✪

Iron Man’s creation-turned-villain, Ultron (voiced by Tony Hale), is a recurring character in the series.

Source: Marvel

Absorbing Man (voiced by Talon Warburton) is ready to challenge the Iron Friends’ plans. | Source: Marvel

Preschoolers can experience the fun of Iron Man and His Awesome Friends in the playroom with a full line of toys from Hasbro, including action figures, vehicles, role play, and playsets. The entire collection is available now at mass retailers.

MARVEL IRON MAN AND HIS AWESOME FRIENDS ARMORED-UP AVENGERS PACK

MSRP: $24.99

MARVEL IRON MAN AND HIS AWESOME FRIENDS 2-IN-1 MECH SUIT & VEHICLE ASSORTMENT

MSRP: $24.99

MARVEL IRON MAN AND HIS AWESOME FRIENDS IRON QUARTERS PLAYSET

This epic two-in-one playset comes with a removable Iron Man role-play mask that kids can wear while pretending to save the day. The set also features a falling monitor, a smashable wall, an armor-up elevator, a stairs-to-slide trap, a flight arm, poseable 3-inch Iron Man and Ultron action figures, and five accesso ries, including Ultron’s spear, two barbells, and two helmets with wings.

MSRP: $59.99

MARVEL IRON MAN AND HIS AWESOME FRIENDS ACTION FIGURE TOY WITH ACCESSORY ASSORTMENT

MSRP: $4.99

MARVEL IRON MAN AND HIS AWESOME FRIENDS ACTION FIGURE & TOY VEHICLE ASSORTMENT

These 3-inch vehicle toys come with poseable figures that fit inside. Remove the detachable two-in-one spoiler accessory from the vehicle, attach it to the figure’s back to armor up, and pretend to smash into adventure. The collection includes an Iron Man Iron Racer figure and car, an Iron Hulk Iron Racer figure and car, and a Black Panther figure and toy airplane.

MSRP: $12.99

LITTLE PEOPLE, BIG FANDOMS

How a Toddler Brand Went from Toy Box Staple to Collector Must-Have

by Taylor Battle, assistant editor

For decades, Little People toys were designed for kids — toddlers and preschoolers, to be exact. But over the last six years, the brand has found a new home, escaping the toy box and landing on collector shelves with the Little People Collector line from Mattel.

Little People figures are known for their chunky size, simple faces, and ability to encourage fine motor skill development in kids. With such a recognizable stature, millions of families have adored the brand since its launch in the ’60s, when it was known as Play Family.

From family figure sets to schoolhouses, vehicles, and more, the Little People brand grew the bandwidth of imaginative play with kids’ favorite properties, like Disney, DC, and even Barbie.

But there’s more fun in store. The tiny tots who once had Little People scattered around the playroom floor became nostalgic adults whose happy childhood memories fuel their purchasing power. A brand with decades of history also comes with decades worth of fans. Enter: Little People Collector, a line of Little People figures featuring adult-oriented licensing, like Stranger Things, Rick and Morty, and more. Debuting in 2019 with popular fandoms like The Beatles, KISS, and WWE, these sets dig into those hardcore fandoms to bring collectors a new way to display their pop-culture faves.

“Little People Collector was born from the idea that toys we love as children, when combined with things we have grown to love as adults, create a surprise and delight experience that invites consumers to celebrate their fandoms,” says Julia Maher, senior director of global brand marketing at Mattel. Like other collectible toy brands,

Little People has a winning formula: a recognizable form factor, licensing opportunities, and an incredibly rich history. At the time of publication, the collectibles line showcases more than 50 sets inspired by various fandoms like Supernatural, My Hero Academia, the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, Elton John, Harry Potter, and more. Designers like Dafna Mor, director of product design at Fisher-Price, work to ensure that each set perfectly blends the Little People design and the unique qualities of each licensed brand.

“Once the IP (intellectual property) is confirmed, the team selects the key characters and develops the story or moment they want to portray. Designers then begin translating these characters into the Little People world — reimagining them with the brand’s signature style: set proportions, raised hands, elliptical eyes, and sculpted details,” Mor says. “The process flows from initial 2D sketches to 3D sculpts, followed by detailed model reviews with the licensors. Product and packaging development happen in parallel from the start, as the packaging plays a vital role in bringing the story and figures to life.”

The boxes receive pop-culture makeovers to assist in storytell ing to ensure the sets look great on shelves. Like the figures themselves, each package is thoughtful ly designed, which is important, considering many collectors never open it. Each box fea tures scenery or imagery from the entertainment content,

"WITH THE EVER-CHANGING WORLD THROUGH STREAMING, SOCIAL MEDIA, SPORTS, AND SO MUCH MORE, WE FEEL LIKE THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS AS WE CONTINUE TO GROW THIS LINE.”

- JULIA MAHER, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL BRAND MARKETING, MATTEL

The Fisher-Price Little People Collector JAWS Set honors the film’s 50th anniversary.

Source: Mattel

like Monica’s apartment from Friends Plus, there are lots of hidden Easter eggs for truly dedicated fans to fnd, such as the Cookie Time cookie jar hiding in the background behind Ross, Rachel, Joey, Chandler, Monica, and Phoebe.

“Our packaging’s Easter eggs have become such a unique part of each set,” Mor says. “Our designers, who are fans of these properties, have fun designing each and every package and being able to infuse those fan-favorite elements.”

Fan response to the Little People Collector sets has been overwhelmingly positive. Pop-culture enthusiasts fock to Fisher-Price’s social media pages to express their excitement over new sets, share ideas and suggestions, and engage with other Little People die-hards.

On Oct. 3, 2024, aka Mean Girls Day, Mattel made a super “fetch” reveal of its Fisher-Price Little People Collector Mean Girls Set on TikTok. The post, featuring Cady and the Plastics at the Winter Talent Show, received more than 250,000 views and more than 19,000 likes. On Instagram, a reel of the Fisher-Price Little People Collector Schitt’s Creek set earned more than 35,000 likes and 700 comments. With overwhelming fan engagement, the Fisher-Price team ensures each set lives up to fans’ expectations.

“We love hearing from our fans, and we want to get every detail right to celebrate their favorite moments and properties,” Maher says. “Before we launched our most recent Golden Girls set, a celebration of the 40th anniversary, we connected with our fans through social media and shared a couple of options, and the overwhelming response was late-night cheesecake! So the team was beyond excited to bring that to life earlier this year.”

The Little People Collector line already features a full universe of pop-culture moments, incorporating characters and scenes from TV shows, flms, sports teams, music legends, and more. Its latest offerings include the Fisher-Price Little People

Collector JAWS set, marking the flm’s 50th anniversary, and the Fisher-Price Little People Collector Will & Grace set, which joins a trove of sitcom favorites like Seinfeld and Friends — and there’s much more on the way.

“We continue to research what’s relevant in pop culture and what’s on people’s minds,” Maher says. “With the ever-changing world through streaming, social media, sports, and so much more, we feel like the possibilities are endless as we continue to grow this line.”

Memories don’t end in childhood, and neither does love for the Little People brand. As adults move into the next chapters and stages of life, they can continue to fuel their fandoms with the familiar faces and chunky fgures they grew up with. While Little People encourages imagination and wonder in toddlers and kids, Little People Collector sets remind adults that the joys of childhood can still have a place in their hearts — and on their shelves. ✪

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Taylor Battle is an assistant editor at The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. Between reading fantasy novels and re-watching Disney classics, she can be found building houses in The Sims 4. Taylor is passionate about creating and is always looking to try new things.

The Little People Collector line features popular TV series like Will & Grace and The Golden Girls. | Source: Mattel

compiled by Annie Marino, editorial assistant

HAVAIANAS MARVEL SPIDER-MAN

COMIC COVER MEN’S SANDALS

HAVAIANAS

Get in touch with your Spidey senses with these Havaianas flip-flops inspired by the iconic comic book hero.

MSRP: $33.99

Available: BoxLunch

SCOOPS AHOY REVERSIBLE BUCKET HAT

NETFLIX SHOP

Take a trip to Hawkins in the ’80s with this reversible Scoops Ahoy bucket hat. It features the Scoops Ahoy ice cream shop logo on one side and flips to reveal a nautical, blue-and-white anchor pattern on the other. It’s Robin and Steve approved.

MSRP: $32 Available: netflix.shop

COLLECTION

DIFF EYEWEAR

With a range of styles from aviator to mirrored, these prescription glasses and sunglasses are named after Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker (pictured), and more. They will keep you stylish, protected, and prepared for any cosmic showdown.

MSRP: $49-134 | Available: diffeyewear.com

GRATEFUL DEAD X VINYARD VINES DANCING BEARS TIE-DYE

SHORT-SLEEVE

VINYARD VINES

POCKET TEE

Celebrate 60 years of the Grateful Dead in groovy style with this tie-dye, good vibes T-shirt featuring the legendary dancing bears.

RAPUNZEL CHASE YOUR DREAMS LIGHTWEIGHT LIP GLOSS SET COLOURPOP

Get tangled up in the glam of this three-piece lip gloss set, inspired by Flynn Rider, Pascal, and Rapunzel. Each gloss features a shimmering, sheer pigment: Rapunzel is a light pink with an iridescent lavender glow; Flynn Rider is a nude with a golden sheen; and Pascal is a subtle golden lime.

MSRP: $27 | Available: ULTA Beauty , colourpop.com

POWERPUFF GIRLS COOLER BAG CAKEWORTHY

Sugar, ice, and everything nice will remain chilled in this Powerpuff Girls cooler bag. This insulated bag features a liquid-filled front pocket showing scuba-diving Bubbles, Blossom, and Buttercup, as well as a padded shoulder strap and a handle.

MSRP: $49.95

Available: cakeworthystore.com

DISNEY PIXAR TOY STORY FACES DENIM SHORTS WITH BELT HER UNIVERSE

Perfect for an outing to infinity and beyond, these mom shorts feature embroidered Toy Story characters, the Pixar Ball printed on the back pocket, and a removable canvas belt, blending comfort with nostalgic style.

MSRP: $49.90 | Available: heruniverse.com

HARRY POTTER — CORONADO CANVAS AND WILLOW BASKET TOTE PICNIC TIME

Whether you’re heading to a Quidditch match or a picnic in the Forbidden Forest, these wicker-style bags each feature a Harry Potter-inspired crest. Choose from Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, or Hog warts (pictured). It’s the perfect accessory to carry your magical essentials.

MSRP: $69.95 (each)

Available: Amazon, BoxLunch, Hot Topic, Kohl’s

DISNEY PRINCESS COLLECTION BY UNIQUE VINTAGE OMBRE SKIRTED ONE-PIECE ARIEL SWIMSUIT UNIQUE VINTAGE

Summer is the perfect time to exude Princess Ariel energy with Unique Vintage’s under-the-sea-themed onepiece, mimicking Ariel’s seashell top and green tail.

Available: unique-vintage.com

Some creators have unboxed their social media niche — literally.

For today’s toy collectors, the era of see-through packaging is over. Mystery boxes, in which you do not know what you’re getting until the big reveal upon opening, have taken over store shelves and social media feeds. The result? Anticipation, fandom, and a whole lot of TikTok are fueling a booming unboxing culture.

The unboxing wave centers on social media creators who post themselves opening surprise collectibles, including Squishmallows, Make It Minis, Mini Brands, Sonny Angel, and, most recently, Labubu.

The more complicated part comes as they strive to garner millions of followers by not only knowing the social media

algorithms, but also the tricks to getting these hard-to-get items as soon as they hit store shelves.

Nathan Fox, known on social media as @nathan_fox_was_here, is an expert on the matter. Fox says his account blew up during the COVID-19 pandemic, a common trope among this niche genre of influencers. At the time of publication, his TikTok audience stands at nearly 3 million followers, and grows by the day.

Just before Fox sat down for an interview with The Pop Insider, he speedily ran to a local toy store. He got word that the store finally had the new Sonny Angel USA Surprise collection, and it was an opportunity he could not miss because millions of fans rely on him to satisfy their unboxing-watching needs. Thankfully, he got them.

Creating this content is now Fox’s fulltime job; he tried to balance it with his

previous job, and there simply was not enough time in the day. Plus, it takes a lot of extra work to even find the collectibles — and it’s becoming more competitive by the day.

“The toy community right now is becoming very cut-throat. [Shop owners] are limiting a lot, even in the stores for people. It is hard for a collector. I know there are a lot of resellers out there that are just trying to snag them up. Still, as a collector, I want to get the whole set,” Fox says on being limited to two of the Sonny Angel surprise boxes.

Sonny Angel is a series of small figurines featutring a cherubic boy, typically unclothed and always smirking like a cartoon Cupid. What makes it a sought-after collectible is the mystery — buyers don’t know which unique headpiece the figure will wear until they unbox it. With more than 1,500 different designs in circulation, the little figures are popping up everywhere. Sonny Angel was even the Saturday Night Live skit due to

Fans are rabidly snatching Sonny Angel mystery boxes off specialty toy store shelves. The fans in question: “young working women who want a little

boyfriend,” according to the Japanese translation of one the figure’s original catchphrases. Of course, anyone can buy a Sonny Angel and use the mini-doll as a shelf or desktop companion, but young working women turned the little cuties into a sold-out sensation — all because of the exciting unboxing appeal.

Jackie Bonheim, director of marketing at Dreams USA (the parent company of Sonny Angel USA), recalls the brand’s viral growth: “It happened gradually, but very fast at the same time. It is funny, it is kind of like we have known it was cute and awesome this whole time, and then it just sort of happened. But then it was great to see people get it and see it kind of click,” she says. “It does not feel real sometimes, but it is kind of beautiful and special to see it resonate with people.”

Like Fox, Aleya, a collector known as @PacoTheSalamander on social media, has gained a large following since she started unboxing surprise box toys during the pandemic. The creator collected the coveted Sonny Angel figures and saw their appeal, and her thousands of fans quickly did as well. She also unboxes Pop Mart’s Labubu and Squishmallows of all

Social media creator Aleya hosts meet-ups for her followers to share, trade , and sell collecibles. This is her shelf of Smiski, a green figure from Dreams USA, creator of Sonny Angel. | Source: @pacothesalamader

sizes, and has even gone old school with unboxing (or opening) Pokémon cards.

Aleya says that she has found a community within the unboxing world and has seen that community evolve. The creator even hosted a meet-up for fans to trade and sell their finds and connect in person.

“I met different people, different supporters from a lot of different communities,” she says. “I started interacting with the people who follow me and support my channels through meet-ups, so I arranged my first meet-up in Sacramento, California, for Squishmallows.”

Aleya was even a bridesmaid at the wedding of a fellow unboxing creator she met online earlier this year. The connection goes much farther than trading Sonny Angel collectibles; it is about finding a shared joy. “There is something about the concept of it just existing to make you smile, and that is OK,” Bonheim says. “It doesn’t have to function necessarily; it can just be a comfort piece or a little thing that brings you happiness.

While anyone could simply unbox a surprise figure and film it, the ability to find and buy rare, limited-edition toys gives creators the superpower that leads

them to virality.

When new series of in-demand collectibles hit the shelves, the stores have lines out the door, and the product often sells out in minutes. Resellers (a bit of a scary word in the current climate) are often in the lines and sell the coveted figures for upward of hundreds of dollars on resale sites like eBay and Whatnot, the up-and-coming Asian version of eBay, where you can find everything from sneakers and plants to mystery collectible toys like Labubu, Sonny Angel, and Squismallows, via livestream.

“We’ve been seeing an overall uptick in the blind-box unboxing craze on Whatnot, but Labubu sales in particular have been skyrocketing for the past couple of months,” says Eric Shemtov, head of collectibles at Whatnot. “Labubu live sales on Whatnot grew over 115% month-over-month from April to May, and watch time on Labubu shows increased more than 85% compared to the previous month. We expect this trajectory to continue for May, as more sellers jump on the Labubu craze.”

Stemming from a slightly different track, Gillian Kasko, whose social handle

is @gillianxgrace, started and remains a beauty and lifestyle creator. Based in New York City, the creator’s Instagram audience can follow along as she attends events hosted by apparel brands or dines at the city’s latest trendy restaurant. What sets her apart in the sea of beauty and lifestyle influencers that flood your feed is that she has wholly splashed into the world of toy unboxing.

Because she is a part of the influencer marketing program ULTA Beauty Collective, she regularly receives promotional boxes from ULTA to share on camera. One of the boxes Kasko received had a Mini Brands surprise ball with ULTAthemed mini items inside. The beauty retail giant collaborated with ZURU to bring some of its most popular makeup and beauty items to the unboxing toy’s line of collectible minis, so that collectors can discover things like a micro Urban Decay eyeshadow palette or a tiny NYX setting spray — all about the size of a sweater button. After Kasko opened the box on a TikTok, her beauty lifestyle presence on TikTok shifted forever with a very valuable niche: She became an “unboxer,” and her fan base grew by thousands.

“I think that is one of the most fun things about being a content creator, you never know what is going to hit and what your audience is going to resonate with,” Kasko says.

Her content is still heavily influenced by beauty and lifestyle, as it originally was, but now the quirky side of toy unboxing has widened her audience and opened the eyes of her original followers to a new world of collectibles. Recently, she posted a Labubu unboxing that garnered nearly 77,000 views in less than 24 hours.

Whether influencers are opening up an adorable Mini Brands ball, searching for a secret Labubu, unveiling a cheeky Sonny Angel, or whatever else the next hottest brand will be, there is a demand for more, and these young content creators are happy to leave this box open. ✪

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ellen Slater is an assistant editor at The Pop Insider, The Toy Book, and The Toy Insider. There, she keeps up with and writes about all things toys and pop culture. She currently lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Unboxer Nathan Fox watched a community grow among his millions of followers, who flock to his TikTok to watch his latest unboxing videos. | Source: Nathan Fox