Gladiator II footage was io9 writer Germain Lussier’s top CinemaCon 2024 highlight. His April 12 roundup was a subjective selection of 21 genre-related moments—not an official ranking or a complete record of the convention.
What did io9 pick as the best thing at CinemaCon 2024?
Lussier’s number-one selection was world-debut footage from Gladiator II. The footage shown to CinemaCon attendees featured gladiatorial combat and story teases involving Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal and Joseph Quinn. That was the writer’s reaction to footage presented at the event, not a review of the finished film.
The roundup reflected io9’s focus on genre projects. Lussier noted that omissions could be outside that scope, merely okay or disappointing, so the list should not be read as a definitive verdict on every presentation.
What kinds of moments made the list?
Studio announcements
Among the Paramount news reported in the April 2024 article were a live-action Transformers/G.I. Joe crossover; an Edgar Wright-directed The Running Man starring Glen Powell; new animated Avatar: The Last Airbender movies; a new Star Trek movie; and a musical from Trey Parker and Matt Stone with Kendrick Lamar. These are announcements as reported at that time, not confirmation of their current development or release status.
#1 Best Overall
- MOVIE-THEATER STYLE POPCORN AT HOME: Pop up to 4 quarts of fresh, delicious popcorn in just minutes—perfect for movie nights, parties, and special events.
- EASY-TO-USE NONSTICK KETTLE: The stainless steel popcorn kettle features a nonstick coating for effortless cleaning. The magnetic kettle cover simplifies filling and emptying.
- CONVENIENT SERVING FEATURES: A patented quick-release lever tilts the kettle to empty popcorn into the serving area, while the tilt door makes serving easy.
- ENHANCED POPPING PERFORMANCE: The motorized stirring rod maximizes popped kernels per batch, and a built-in kernel catcher tray collects unpopped kernels for a better snacking experience.
- COMPACT AND FUNCTIONAL DESIGN: With dimensions of 10.87” (W) x 10.27” (D) x 17.72” (H), this stylish popcorn popper includes a measuring tool and scoop for making gourmet popcorn at home.
The article’s subtitle also named Disney, Paramount, Universal, Warner Bros. and Lionsgate among the studios bringing future slates to the convention.
Promotional spectacle
Not every highlight was a film reveal. The roundup singled out the “Twisters suck tube” as the most eye-catching in-theater display. It was a promotional installation at the event, not a product recommendation.
Rank #2
- FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: The 4-quart Theater Popcorn Machine is perfect for snacking while binge-watching your favorite shows
- FRESH THEATER POPCORN: Cabinet holds up to 4 quarts of popped popcorn, with tilt door for easy serving
- STIR CRAZY: Get larger kernels and more pops per batch with the motorized stirring rod
- CONVENIENT FEATURES: Removable nonstick popping kettle tilts for easy popcorn removal. Magnetic kettle cover sticks to the top to stay out of the way
- COUNTERTOP DESIGN: Popper cabinet has a small footprint that gives you theater style popcorn at home
A film pitch in a ranked entry
The article’s entry for Good Fortune described Aziz Ansari as its writer, director and star, with Keanu Reeves playing an angel and Seth Rogen a rich man whose life is switched with that of a poor man. The entry said there was no release date at the time; that detail is historical and should not be treated as current.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How should readers interpret the “21 best” framing?
The title describes an editorial roundup from four days of CinemaCon in Las Vegas. It combines reactions to footage with studio announcements and event displays, rather than applying a published scoring system. The accessible reporting establishes the top selection and several examples, but does not support reconstructing every entry or presenting a verified, complete 21-item ranking here.
Rank #3
- Powerful Heating, High Yield: This commercial popcorn machine boasts 850W of power and an 8 oz kettle, popping up to 48 cups of popcorn per batch (around 384 oz) and keeping up with the demand of your busy concession stand. NOW that is a lot of popcorn. It takes only a few minutes to preheat the kettle. Then the hot popcorn will flow as quickly as your customers can eat it up. Get ready to keep sports fans, festival-goers, and party guests content with plenty of popcorn to go around.
- Simple Operation, Lasting Warm: 3 fantastic switches control the whole unit: Warmer, Stirrer, and Pot Heater. Simplified control streamlines the operation, making it easy for any staff member to use. The warming deck features a 60W heating tube underneath. Once the popcorn machine begins cooking, finished popcorn will fall to the warming deck and stay fresh until you're ready to serve. Besides, the 60W warmer light brightly illuminates your popcorn. Let them shine and catch the eyes of everyone!
- Durable Structure, Effortless Cleaning: This countertop popcorn machine comprises a cold rolled steel frame and tempered glass panels to withstand frequent use. The doors with magnetic latch provides quick access and enhances the appearance of the popcorn inside. The printed graphics on its top may also catch some hungry stares. Besides, the wing nuts on the kettle allow you to detach its lid easily and clean its interior thoroughly. Hassle-free cleaning will extend the machine's service life.
- Designed with Your Comfort in Mind: Every component of the popcorn machine feels like second nature! Once the warming deck begins to fill, simply open the hinged cover below, then the popcorn will be right there, ready to be scooped! The removable crumb tray serves to keep the chamber clean and free from stray kernels. Collecting and disposing of fallen kernels has never been easier!
- Accessories That Rock: This tabletop popcorn maker machine includes a popcorn scoop for filling your popcorn cups, and two spoons for measuring corn and oil. You are going to have such a great time creating delicious flavors. All these parts are made of food-grade materials. Complete accessories make operation a breeze right out of the box. It's time to enjoy bucket after bucket of fresh popcorn!
For documentary and film-industry readers, the piece is most useful as a snapshot of what caught one genre-focused writer’s attention at the 2024 convention. Its announcements and release-date references belong to that moment; they do not by themselves establish what happened afterward.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 8 OZ POPCORN MACHINE - Whether you’re feeding a crowd or settling in for movie night, the Matinee popcorn maker has the snacks covered, with a built-in kettle stirrer, a heated deck to keep popcorn fresh, and a reject tray to collect un-popped kernels.
- COUNTERTOP SIZE - This 8-ounce popcorn popper is the perfect balance of compact size and party-ready output, producing up to 3 gallons (48 cups) per batch while looking great on your kitchen counter or on display in the den with your movie theater décor.
- EASY TO USE - The 3-switch design lets you use the kettle heater, stirrer, and warming light independently, popping up a tasty batch of everyone’s favorite salty treat in just minutes. To clean, simply wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
- QUALITY MATERIALS - GNP has been selling superior popcorn poppers for home use for over 10 years, using only the best materials. This electric popcorn popper features tempered glass food zones for safety and a powerful 850-watt stainless-steel kettle.
- PRODUCT DETAILS - Materials: Tempered Glass, Stainless-Steel, and Metal. Dimensions: (L) 14.7” x (W) 12.9” x (H) 23.1”; Weight: 26.7lbs. 850W, 120V. 60W Warming Light. Includes Measuring Cups, Scoop, 50 Popcorn Bags, and 3 Popcorn Buckets. Color: Red.
Rank #4
- Bring the Theater Home: Experience the magic of movie theater popcorn right in your own living room with our popcorn machine! In just minutes, you’ll have up to 10 cups of fresh, buttery popcorn that tastes like it’s straight from the theater. Perfect for family movie nights, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers, the vintage popcorn machine makes every occasion feel special. Don’t wait for a special event-turn any night into a movie night with this must-have machine!
- Customize Every Batch of Popcorn: Elevate your popcorn game with this popcorn maker, designed to work perfectly with all Nostalgia popcorn kits, including the Theater Hot Air & Kettle Kit, popcorn oil, and a variety of seasoning packs. Create your own personalized popcorn creations with endless flavor possibilities! From sweet to savory, this popcorn maker machine allows you to experiment and satisfy your cravings, whether it’s for a movie marathon or an after-school treat.
- Effortless Perfection Every Time: Say goodbye to burnt, uneven popcorn! This commercial popcorn machine features a built-in kernel stirring system for even popping every time. The 2.5oz stainless steel kettle pops fresh, crispy popcorn in minutes, while the popcorn machine on wheels lets you move it effortlessly from room to room. Easy to clean with a removable kettle, it’s the ideal solution for anyone who loves fresh popcorn but doesn’t want the hassle. Set it up, pop, and enjoy!
- Safety, Durability, and Style: Crafted with tempered safety glass, this stand on popcorn machines ensures durability and safety. Whether you’re hosting a large event or making a quick snack for yourself, the popcorn cart with wheels lets you move it around easily, adding both function and flair. The sturdy build and retro design make it not only a reliable kitchen appliance but also a stylish centerpiece for any gathering. Enjoy high-quality popcorn every time with this long-lasting popcorn maker.
- Fun for Every Occasion: This home theater popcorn maker isn’t just for movie nights-it's perfect for parties, holidays, and family gatherings. The vintage popcorn maker brings a touch of nostalgia and excitement to any event, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Ready in minutes, with endless flavor options, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy fresh, hot popcorn. Get ready to create unforgettable memories with the easiest and most fun snack vintage popcorn maker you’ll ever own!
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