Crystal Lake Regal Showplace theater upgrades with king-sized recliners

CRYSTAL LAKE – Moviegoers in Crystal Lake now can experience the big screen with their feet up.

Regal Entertainment Group completed its months-long renovation project that outfits all 16 auditoriums inside Regal Crystal Lake Showplace Stadium 16 with king-sized recliners complete with footrests, the Knoxville, Tennessee-based company announced Wednesday.

"Regal is redefining the level of comfort at this theater. Our guests will be able to stretch out, relax and recline while watching the movie," Rob Del Moro, Regal's chief technical and theater operations officer, said in a news release. "Regal constantly listens to our guests and looks for ways to improve. With this new concept, these luxurious recliners have scored extremely well."

The entertainment group started the renovation project earlier this year, upgrading each auditorium in the 70,000-square-foot Crystal Lake theater with the recliners, fresh paint, improved acoustics and carpeting, permit documents previously showed.

Facing growing competition, movie theaters throughout the country have upgraded their digs with numerous amenities, including recliners and even bars, to create a grander theater experience.

In 2013, the AMC Lake in the Hills 12 movie theater renovated its lobby, concessions, auditoriums and restrooms, adding luxury recliner seats and a bar.

Regal Entertainment previously upgraded its Crystal Lake theater with a modernized viewing experience, converting from celluloid film to digital cinema, the company said.

Moviegoers interested in testing the theater's new seats can try out the king-sized recliners in the lobby.