The New Gladiator II Popcorn Bucket Has Fans Seeing MF DOOM’s Iconic Mask

The highly anticipated sequel to Gladiator, the Ridley Scott classic, hits theaters this November, and with it, collectible popcorn buckets and cups inspired by the film. At least, that’s what they expect us to believe. Both collectibles resemble a gladiator helmet that looks eerily similar to the one worn by underground rap legend MF DOOM. 

Either the marketing team behind Gladiator II is a fan of MF DOOM or we’ve slipped into some alternate reality because there’s no way they weren’t inspired by the late, great Viktor Vaughn. For one, there have been countless styles of gladiator masks throughout history, but this one looks identical to his. The only difference is the addition of more spikes. 

While Paramount didn’t confirm the connection, fans have already taken to their timelines to point out the obvious resemblance. There’s something heartwarming about the response, too. I knew MF DOOM had fans from all types of backgrounds, but to see masses of people spot the similarities was further proof of the late rapper’s global influence.

In response, many fans simply view the new Gladiator collectibles as new MF DOOM collectibles. It’s unsure whether that was part of the marketing team’s plans, but it’s a genius and super meta approach. Strangely enough, this coincides with the 20th anniversary of MF DOOM’s classic 2004 album “Mm..Food.”