UPDATE: Cinépolis Construction Begins

While there isn't much to see quite yet, construction is finally under way at the new Luxury Cinemas in the former

The area has been sectioned off and the remodeling work seems to be taking place behind tall wooden boards. It's a little like when Grandpa Joe says to Charlie Bucket in the film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory while the two are standing in front of the gates: "Up the airy mountain, down the rushing glen, we dare not go a hunting, for fear of little men. You see...nobody ever goes in and nobody ever comes out!"

A few weeks ago, two large blue banners with the words "Coming in 2012" appeared across the building at 32401 Golden Lantern St.

Cinépolis, a Latin American theater chain, took over the site Oct. 1, replacing the Edwards theater that anchored the center for 20 years.

Laguna Niguel will be the company's third theater in Southern California, following Del Mar and La Costa.

Work should be completed in five to six months, enabling the posh theater to open in April 2012, according to theater management.

Cinépolis will screen new movies in seven auditoriums that feature state-of-the-art digital equipment, HD, 3D and Surround Sound technologies. Each auditorium will seat guests in custom-designed leather recliners that offer 7 feet of space to lean back or kick up the footrest.

The seats will also come equipped with a button that summons waiters so guests don’t have to leave the auditorium to grab a snack.

The food menu will include standard movie fare, such as popcorn and candies, plus gourmet finger foods, artisan sandwiches, alcohol and cheese. 

Pricing will be comparable to the average restaurant menu, Wellman said.

The venue will also host live-feed concerts, sporting events and more, he said.

Movie-goers can expect to pay between $13.50 and $18 a ticket.