Unlimited popcorn sounds like the ultimate movie theater perk—but is it actually a good deal? Many theater chains across the Northeast offer refillable popcorn tubs or free same-day refills on large sizes. But with ticket prices already climbing and concession costs rising, it’s worth asking: are popcorn refills really saving you money, or are they just clever marketing?

Here’s a breakdown of refill policies at major theaters and how to tell if they’re worth it.

AMC Theatres: Annual Popcorn Bucket Program

AMC Theatres offers an annual popcorn bucket program, which lets you purchase a branded bucket for a one-time fee and refill it for a discounted price all year.

• Bucket Price: $24.99 (2024 edition)
  
• Refill Price: $5.49 per visit
  
• Bonus: AMC Stubs members can earn points with every refill
  

Worth It?
If you visit AMC more than five times a year and consistently order popcorn, the bucket pays for itself. It’s ideal for frequent moviegoers or families who regularly hit the theater.

Regal Cinemas: Free Same-Day Refills

Regal offers one free refill with every large popcorn purchase during your visit. The refill can be redeemed at any time before you leave the theater.

• Large Popcorn Price: ~$8–$9
  
• Refill Limit: One per purchase, same day only
  

Worth It?
If you’re sharing a large popcorn or watching a double feature, the refill is a nice bonus. But if you’re not likely to finish one tub, the offer doesn’t add much value.

Cinemark: Refillable Containers for Movie Club Members

Cinemark Movie Club members can purchase a discounted annual refillable popcorn tub and soda cup.

• Annual Tub Price: ~$25
  
• Refill Price: $4.25 per visit
  
• Eligibility: Only available to Movie Club members
  

Worth It?
If you’re already a Movie Club member and visit often, this combo can result in serious savings over time—especially when combined with discounted ticket pricing.

Other Factors to Consider

• Portion Size: Large popcorn tubs are big enough for 2–3 people. If you’re solo, a regular or medium size may make more sense.
  
• Health Considerations: While delicious, movie theater popcorn is high in salt and calories. Some people skip the refill simply because one serving is plenty.
  
• Refill Timing: Most theaters only allow refills during the same visit—not after the movie ends—so plan accordingly.
  

How to Maximize Value

Even if refills don’t always make sense, you can still save on popcorn by pairing discount days and loyalty rewards with cashback tools. For example:

• Buy an AMC gift card through Fluz to pay for your refillable bucket
  
• Get cashback on Regal popcorn purchases
• Save on Cinemark concession deals using a digital gift card
  

Because gift cards purchased through Fluz can be used instantly, you can buy one right before checkout and earn cashback on your entire order.

Bottom Line: Are Refills Worth It?

• YES, if you’re a frequent moviegoer, part of a loyalty program, or splitting popcorn with others
  
• MAYBE, if you only visit occasionally and don’t always want popcorn
  
• NO, if you tend to skip snacks or never finish your first tub
  

Like most things at the movies, the value of unlimited popcorn depends on your habits. But with the right timing and tools—like loyalty rewards and cashback from Fluz—you can still enjoy your snacks without overpaying.