ENGLISH
REFERENCE

popcorn movie

idiom
Meaning

A motion picture without serious dramatic content, a weighty message, or intellectual depth, which serves simply as enjoyable entertainment.


Origin

disputed origin

Named after popcorn, a popular accompaniment to movies.

Examples
SIMPLE

We just want to watch a fun popcorn movie tonight.

CONTEXTUAL

After a long week at work, I prefer watching a mindless popcorn movie instead of a serious drama.

COMPLEX

While critics often dismiss the summer blockbuster as a mere popcorn movie, audiences consistently flock to theaters for the pure, unpretentious spectacle it provides.

Anchors to
Related idioms4entries
  1. 01

    grab the popcorn

    Used to express anticipated enjoyment from watching a conflict or argument developing between other people, as if one were being entertained at the movies.

  2. 02

    have seen this movie

    To have experienced a situation which is the same as or similar to the current situation, especially with a sense of the unpleasantness or tiresomeness of the recurring situation.

  3. 03

    movie jail

    A state of derailment of a career or limited opportunities to which a film industry professional is seemingly relegated, usually as a result of making an unsuccessful film.

  4. 04

    tentpole movie

    A major motion picture which is expensive to produce but expected to generate significant revenue for its studio and investors.

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