
"Popcorn," released in 1991, is a horror film centered around a horror film festival held in a theater with a grim past—a tragic fire—where the event spirals into an actual nightmare. Upon its initial release, the movie received mixed reviews; critics often noted its uneven tone and derivative elements, but it enjoyed a modest fanbase among slasher enthusiasts. Over the years, "Popcorn" has undergone a critical reevaluation. Rather than being dismissed as merely dated, it has garnered a cult following appreciative of its meta-commentary on horror films and nostalgic early '90s slasher vibes. Today, it is regarded as an underrated gem within the horror community, admired for its clever setting and atmosphere, as well as its playful nods to the genre’s tropes.