Tysons theater overhaul ends with new sensory screen
AMC Tysons Corner 16 completes a seven-month renovation that adds 4DX technology and premium seating after a multi-year gap in upgrades.
By Yasmin Kovalenko ·
The seven-month renovation at AMC Tysons Corner 16 concluded on October 30, introducing a 4DX screen to the Washington, D.C. area. The update follows a long period without major structural changes, with the theater last undergoing comprehensive improvements in 2005. Dan Ellis, executive vice president and chief operations, development and marketing officer at AMC, stated the goal was to bring a fresh look and feel to the venue.
Construction began in March of this year. The project added three premium large-format auditoriums. It also updated the seating, box office, and MacGuffins Bar. The theater remained open to the public during the phased work.
The new 4DX format includes moving seats and more than 21 environmental effects. These effects include water sprays, snow, and scents that sync with on-screen action. AMC unveiled its first 4DX screen in Houston, Texas, in February. The company plans to roll out the format to 40 theaters in the U.S. and Europe by the end of 2027.
The renovation also added a second Dolby Cinema auditorium. This room promises enhanced image and sound quality. It sits alongside a new AMC Prime room. The Prime auditorium features recliner seating, laser projection technology for brighter colors and sharper contrasts, and enhanced surround sound.
All traditional auditoriums now have heated recliners. The hallways and MacGuffins Bar received cosmetic updates. The bar serves food and alcohol to patrons 21 and older. The theater is located on the third floor of Tysons Corner Center at 1961 Chain Bridge Road Mall MAJ04.
Current screenings in the 4DX room include the Batman villain origin story Clayface and Wicker, a fantasy-romance starring Olivia Colman and Alexander Skarsgård. The Prime room is currently showing You Can See Everything, a documentary by Nathan Fielder about Elizabeth Holmes. Ellis noted the investment was made because the location has long been one of the most popular moviegoing destinations in the region.
The project was a multi-million-dollar overhaul. It aimed to compete with other chains and sophisticated home theater setups by creating a unique cinema experience. The theater had previously added an IMAX-branded screen in 2010 and converted one auditorium to Dolby Cinema. Neither of those rooms was included in the recent renovation.
Source: FFXnow
