Construction Begins On Illinois's Largest Movie Screen In Batavia

BATAVIA, IL — Construction began Wednesday on what's projected to soon be Illinois's largest movie theater screen, located in Batavia.

Three 98-foot-wide truss girders and 68 joists were raised at the new Emagine Batavia theater at 550 Randall Road, home of the former Randall 15 IMAX, to provide structure for the Super EMX auditorium.

The cineplex will be home not only to the Super EMX theater — featuring a 96-foot-wide screen, 4K laser projection and Dolby Atmos immersive sound system — but also to two private screening rooms and 12 other auditoriums, all equipped with 4K projection, "cuddle chairs" and heated recliners.

Renovations are expected to be completed this summer, officials said.

Emagine Entertainment, the theater owners, purchased the Batavia property in spring 2020 and is currently working to transform the space into a luxurious and upscale movie house.

"We are trying to do something unique for our guests that will make them want to leave their homes and come visit Emagine," Paul Glantz, chairman and co-founder of Emagine Entertainment, said in a statement. "Between this massive 96-foot screen, our heated and powered recliners, and our enhanced concessions we think this will provide an exemplary experience."

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Michigan-based Emagine, the ninth-largest theater chain in the country, operates 28 theaters in five states, including two in Illinois: in Frankfort and Chatham.