By Nicolas Ayala

In a city that lives and breathes cinema, Chicago’s South Loop just leveled up its moviegoing game. The newly reopened AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 isn’t just another theater—it’s a cinematic battlestation primed for Marvel-tier showdowns, DC-level drama, and even the next big chapter in the Fast & Furious saga. Nestled inside the Roosevelt Collection retail complex, this location is poised to become one of AMC’s crown jewels, especially once its IMAX and Dolby Cinema auditoriums make their grand entrance later this summer.

Theater resurrection that brings cutting-edge tech to Chicago’s South Loop

Replacing the shuttered ShowPlace Icon that closed last summer, AMC’s takeover of the space at 1011 S. Delano Court is more than a makeover—it’s a resurrection. With tickets already on sale for screenings beginning April 25, and 14 of the 16 auditoriums set to be operational by May 2, the momentum is real. But the true showstoppers are still under construction. AMC plans to roll out its IMAX at AMC and Dolby Cinema at AMC experiences by the end of the summer, promising visuals and sound that don’t just display a film—they ignite it.

“We’re excited to provide top-notch amenities and a wide variety of programming to the South Loop community—just in time for some of this year’s biggest blockbuster hits,” said Dan Ellis, AMC’s EVP of Operations and Redevelopment. And he’s not exaggerating. Whether it’s a soul-punching Marvel finale or a dinosaur rampage in 70mm glory, this theater will have you feeling like you’re part of the action.

Every seat is the best seat with laser projection and plush recliners

For fans who remember the ShowPlace Icon, there are familiar bones beneath the surface. The carpet remains, and the general layout holds steady. But step inside, and you’re immediately hit with an upgrade that’s equal parts sleek and cozy. The once red fabric recliners have been swapped out for plush, tan leather recliners that scream comfort. Every auditorium features Laser at AMC projection—offering brighter images, sharper contrasts, and colors so vivid they practically leap off the screen.

Plus, with reserved seating and ticketless entry, you can lock in your spot for a Friday night showdown with zero hassle. It’s a level of convenience that pairs perfectly with the premium experience. Whether you’re lining up to watch Sinners — Ryan Coogler-adjacent and shot in IMAX glory — or catching a quiet Sunday matinee, AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 makes sure you do it in style.

IMAX and Dolby Cinema upgrades will turn big screen dreams into reality

While the Dolby and IMAX auditoriums won’t be ready at launch, their arrival this summer is what truly sets this location apart. These aren’t just big screens—they’re immersive ecosystems designed to amplify every punch, whisper, and plot twist. The recent Verge deep dive into Sinners — with cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw calling the choice to shoot in IMAX and Ultra Panavision 70 “full bananas” — underscores how format choice can revolutionize storytelling. Films like this don’t just benefit from IMAX; they require it.

Imagine watching a film like Sinners in a space where the close-ups feel like personal confessions and the wide shots of the Mississippi Delta’s endless horizons engulf you in their beauty and melancholy. That’s the kind of emotional resonance AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 is gearing up to deliver. And it’s not just indie passion projects that will shine here—this is ground zero for the next Avengers-level spectacle or a Jungle Cruise-style adventure.

More than a theater—it’s a community hub for Chicago’s film fans

Located within the bustling Roosevelt Collection, this theater doesn’t just serve moviegoers—it serves the community. With nearby retail giants like Ulta Beauty, H&M, and Banana Republic, the AMC Roosevelt 16 is perfectly positioned for a post-movie shopping spree or a pre-show dinner. Speaking of dining, the old 21-and-older bar concept has been replaced by MacGuffins—AMC’s signature full-service bar and eatery open to all ages. It’s a smart move that opens up the space for families, couples, and friend groups alike.

Sure, the VIP seating is gone, but the overall vibe is more inclusive and still undeniably premium. And for those who loved the ShowPlace Icon, here’s a small but sweet nod—the iconic carpet lives on. It’s that mix of nostalgia and innovation that makes AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 feel like home, even as it pushes cinema into the future.

Chicago gains a cinematic stronghold for the era of event films

In an age where streaming wars are fierce and theaters are fighting to stay relevant, AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 stands as a beacon of what the big screen experience can and should be. This isn’t just a place to watch movies—it’s a place to experience them. Whether it’s the blood-soaked mythos of Sinners, the emotional punch of a Black Panther-style close-up, or the earth-shaking roar of a T-Rex in Jurassic World, this theater promises to deliver with full force.

For Chicagoans, especially those south of the Loop, the wait is over. The next time you’re craving that superhero-sized sensory overload or simply want to feel the humanity of a film like never before, AMC Roosevelt Collection 16 will be ready to take you there. And with IMAX and Dolby Cinema on the horizon, the future has never looked more epic.