Popular Birmingham cinema set to reopen in time for Christmas with blockbuster hits - here’s when

Christmas has come early for cinema fans in south Birmingham - as a leisure company announces it’s reopening a popular cinema.

Omniplex Cinema Group, which is Ireland’s largest cinema company, is pulling back the curtains on the big screens at the former Empire Cinema in Rubery Great Park once more with a raft of blockbusters planned throughout the festive period.

The popular venue was popular with local families, friends and film fanatics who were left disappointed when it closed its doors as Empire Cinema went into administration this summer closing movie theatres across the country.

The Rubery site is one of five Empire Cinema locations in the UK being reopened by Omniplex, which is investing £22.5 million over 18 months to acquire and renovate them. The four other cinemas are Ipswich, Sutton in Surrey, Clydebank, and High Wycombe - with additional locations to be announced in 2024. 

When is the cinema at Rubery Great Park reopening & what films will be on?

Omniplex is reopening the cinema at Rubery Great Park on Wednesday, December 6 with 13-screens ready to host an array of cinematic adventures.

The latest blockbusters including children’s fantasy film Wonka, historical blockbuster Napoleon and dystopian action title Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes gracing the festive lineup. 

What else do we know about Omniplex?

Omniplex first opened its doors to customers in Ireland in 1991 and has since amassed a total of 270 screens across 38 cinema locations. The cinema company is renowned for its state-of-the-art projection and digital sound facilities, as well as diverse programming which includes sporting events, musicals, concerts, and ballet in addition to the latest cinema releases.

With the cinema company already operating 38 separate cinema locations on the island of Ireland, it has signalled its commitment to establishing a strong presence in the British cinema market, with this investment set to secure 150 existing jobs.

Speaking about the news, Paul John Anderson, Director of the Omniplex Cinema Group said: "We are thrilled to bring an Omniplex Cinema to Birmingham and cannot wait to welcome movie enthusiasts through our doors. From the latest blockbusters to timeless classics, we look forward to creating unforgettable moments for our new customers.”