The 20th anniversary of MF DOOM‘s fifth album MM..FOOD is right around the corner, and there’s a whole ton of new merch coming to celebrate — including, apparently, a popcorn bucket…?
Okay, so AMC isn’t really releasing one of its infamous custom concession containers to commemorate DOOM’s high-concept, edible-inspired album… but you can pretend it is with the bucket for Gladiator 2, which fans have noted bears a distinctive resemblance to the rap supervillain’s trademark mask.
Of course, there’s an obvious reason for the MF DOOM vibes coming from the Gladiator 2 bucket: DOOM’s mask was a modified prop from the first Gladiator film worn by the titular protagonist played by Russell Crowe. It just so happens that in the intervening 24 years since the first film, the design has become much more associated with DOOM in pop culture, leading to similar, very funny misunderstandings such as the time actress Sharon Stone posted a photo on social media wearing the mask, generating a slew of jokes about her actually being the iconic underground rapper.
In reality, DOOM was the not-so-secret identity of Daniel Dumile, formerly known as Zev Love X from the early ’90s rap group KMD. However, he still did manage to keep one aspect of his civilian identity out of the public record: His birthday, which rap fans mistook for decades before his death in 2020.
Adam Aron, the CEO of AMC Entertainment Holdings, has steered the company through some of the most challenging times in the entertainment industry. As of 2024, his net worth is reported to be over $45 million, according to GuruFocus. This substantial figure reflects his successful tenure in leading one of the world’s largest movie theater chains and his adeptness in navigating the complexities of the modern entertainment landscape. Further, Aron’s career is marked by a series of high-profile leadership roles across various industries, showcasing his versatility and strategic vision. His journey to the top of AMC is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the company’s success.
Early Career & Path To Leadership
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 08: Adam Aron attends the 33rd American. Cinematheque Award Presentation Honoring Charlize Theron at The Beverly Hilton. Hotel on November 08, 2019, also in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/FilmMagic)
Adam Aron began his career with a strong foundation in business and management. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School. His early professional years were spent at companies like Pan American World Airways and Hyatt Hotels Corporation, where he honed his skills in marketing and strategic planning.
Aron’s leadership capabilities became evident during his tenure as CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line and Vail Resorts. At Vail Resorts, he transformed the company into a premier destination for luxury ski vacations, significantly increasing its market value. These experiences equipped him with the expertise to tackle larger challenges and laid the groundwork for his future role at AMC Theatres.
Revitalizing AMC Theatres
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 24: Chairman of the Board & CEO of AMC Theatres Adam Aron speaks onstage during CinemaCon 2021 The State of the Industry and MGM/UAR Presentation at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace during CinemaCon, the official convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners, on August 24, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images for CinemaCon)
Adam Aron took the helm of AMC Theatres in 2015. It was a time when the traditional cinema industry was facing significant disruptions from digital streaming services. Under his leadership, AMC embarked on an ambitious expansion and modernization strategy. This included the acquisition of Carmike Cinemas, Odeon Cinemas, and Nordic Cinema Group, making AMC the largest movie theater chain in the world.
Aron also spearheaded initiatives to enhance the movie-going experience, such as introducing recliner seating, advanced sound systems, and expanding food and beverage options. These efforts aimed to make AMC theatres more appealing and competitive in a rapidly changing market. His innovative approach and focus on customer experience have been pivotal in revitalizing AMC’s brand and operational efficiency.
Navigating The Pandemic
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 27: Adam Aron, Chairman & CEO, AMC Entertainment attends the 49th. AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute To Nicole Kidman at Dolby Theatre on April 27, 2024, also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for AFI)
One of Adam Aron’s most significant challenges came with the COVID-19 pandemic, severely impacting the global cinema industry. During this unprecedented crisis, Aron demonstrated remarkable leadership and resilience. He negotiated with landlords and lenders to secure the necessary liquidity to keep AMC afloat. He also implemented safety protocols to reassure moviegoers and encouraged the industry’s recovery. Aron’s bold move to embrace the retail investor community through social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit played a crucial role in AMC’s financial turnaround. By engaging directly with the public, he harnessed the power of grassroots support. This also led to a substantial increase in AMC’s stock price. This strategy not only bolstered the company’s finances but also created a loyal base of retail investors.
Additionally, Adam Aron is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various charitable activities, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and the arts. His commitment to giving back to the community reflects his broader vision of responsible leadership. Moreover, Aron’s passion for travel and adventure is well-documented. He has visited numerous countries and is an avid supporter of cultural exchange and understanding. This personal interest aligns with his professional endeavors, as both are driven by a desire to create meaningful and memorable experiences.
According to a recent report by Variety, Beyonce is in the end stages of working out a deal with AMC to distribute a RENAISSANCE concert film to their theaters. A source reportedly told the outlet that fans could get to see the project as soon as December 1 of this year. The source also adds that the deal will see Beyonce taking home roughly half of the film’s gross earnings. The deal is similar to the deal Taylor Swift recently agreed to for her Eras Tour concert film coming out next month.
Fans have been eagerly-anticipating more news of Beyonce’s RENAISSANCE concert film for some time now. Another source claims that the film will include documentary-style elements showcasing Beyonce’s process of putting the tour and album together. It’ll also reportedly include footage from some of her most significant performances from the tour, as well as pieces of her long-awaited RENAISSANCE visuals.
Beyonce’s RENAISSANCE Concert Film Reportedly Arrives December 1
Beyoncé performs onstage during the “RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR” at MetLife Stadium on July 29, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Parkwood )
At the beginning of this month, it was rumored that the icon was shopping the visual album around with various streamers and studios. Above The Line spoke with a source who revealed that the “artsy” film was directed by Nadia Lee Cohen. “It’s a visual album movie,” the source explained. “But it’s like an art film, and I’ve also heard it’s better than Black Is King.”
Apparently, she had been weighing out her options for some time, and started shopping it around earlier this year. Nothing had ever come of it, however. “I’m guessing the price and lack of replay value for the casual viewer,” the source said. “Or maybe Beyoncé didn’t like how it turned out? I don’t know…” What do you think of Beyonce’s reported plans to distribute her RENAISSANCE concert film directly to AMC Theaters? Are you looking forward to seeing it? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates on Beyonce.
