Huntsville’s MidCity getting Alabama’s largest movie screen – AL.com

It perhaps only makes sense that one of the largest commercial real estate projects in the country would feature the largest movie screen in Alabama.

Touchstar Cinemas announced Thursday that the state’s largest movie screen would be built at Huntsville’s MidCity District – the sprawling mixed-use development at the site of the former Madison Square Mall.

The new theater, to be known as Touchstar Luxury Cinemas MidCity, will be a state-of-the-art theater that’s the latest announcement for the $850 million development. The new theater will be 50,000 square feet with 14 wall-to-wall screens that includes the state’s largest silver screen, 4k laser projection with 3D viewing as well as Dolby Atmos and DTX immersive sound

The announcement also touted in-theater dining and Platinum VIP Suites with a private lounge and full-service bar.

“The seating in the 21+ VIP Suites will consist of movie pods – pairs of luxurious heated reclining seats with a privacy enclosure and push button call service,” the announcement said. “The VIP Suites will be available for private or corporate events.”

The new theater will replace the current the Touchstar Cinemas Madison Square facility at the MidCity site.

“Established in 2001, Touchstar Cinemas was the first to bring recliners to Alabama, and the comfort of these well-known fully reclining large seats and spacious daybeds will continue in the new theater,” Karishma Dattani, CEO of Touchstar Cinemas, said in the announcement. “We are proud to bring the first theater of this caliber to the Huntsville and Madison communities. This opportunity allows us to expand our local presence and continue to be part of the revitalization and growth of North Alabama.”

RCP Companies is the developer of MidCity, which was rated among the 12 largest U.S. developments in 2017 by National Real Estate Investor. The development has already had openings such as Topgolf, Dave & Busters and High Point Climbing and Fitness.

“Touchstar complements the culture-forward entertainment destination we are developing at MidCity,” Max Grelier, co-founder of RCP Companies, said in the announcement. “The new Touchstar theater will offer visitors and residents an elevated cinematic option that fits well with our commitment to create great experiences in every aspect of MidCity.”

The new theater is scheduled to open in the summer of 2021 and be located at the end of MidCity Drive adjacent to the entertainment district and yet-to-be-announced hotels. The current theater will close simultaneously with the opening of the new one.