Cineworld has announced that its Watford location will be the first in its estate to undergo a full recliner transformation, with custom-built luxury recliner seats launching across all seven 2D auditoriums, paired with Barco Laser projection. The upgrade complements Watford’s existing IMAX with Laser and ScreenX formats – meaning all nine screens will now deliver state-of-the-art technology and elevated comfort for a truly superior entertainment experience.

This transformation is part of Cineworld’s broader investment programme, which includes plans to spend up to £35 million on the refurbishment and enhancement of existing cinemas across the UK. Additional recliner conversions and 4DX installations are planned for later this year and beyond into 2026.

The Cineworld recliner chair is the result of extensive research and development, including the testing of 182 recliner chairs from 49 suppliers across 22 countries. Drawing inspiration from industries where premium comfort is essential – including automotive, first-class airline seating and even massage therapy – the chair has been engineered from the ground up using best-in-class global components to deliver what Cineworld proudly calls the best seat on the planet.

“Our goal was to design a chair that enhances the cinematic experience in every way,” said Adam Barylak, VP of International Construction, Cineworld. “The final product is wider and taller than industry standard, constructed from recycled materials, and precisely engineered to create a feeling of weightlessness. Every detail – from the chair’s geometry and component design, to the smooth motion and the softness of its cushioning – was crafted to make you feel lighter than air.”

Built from scratch through rigorous testing and design, the new recliner simulates a ‘zero gravity’ sensation – evenly distributing body weight to mimic the effortless float of a space launch. Back and legs are elevated to form an “S-curve” that supports the spine’s natural shape – reducing pressure points and improving circulation. The result is a deeper, more immersive recline that leaves you feeling suspended – as though you are floating. The seat disappears, and the film takes over.

Cineworld will open the first three recliner screens at its Watford cinema on Thursday, August 21, with the remaining 2D auditoriums in Watford set for full recliner upgrades in the coming months. All 2D screens feature Barco Laser projection – delivering crystal-clear visuals and up to 40% more contrast than industry standard.

Javier Sotomayor, President of Cineworld International added: “We’ve spent years developing a recliner chair that puts comfort on par with spectacle, and Watford is the first site to showcase it fully. It’s the beginning of a bold new standard we’re rolling out across our estate, and we can’t wait for guests to feel the difference.”

Tickets for Cineworld Watford are available at cineworld.com and via the Cineworld app.

About Cineworld Watford
Cineworld Watford is a 9-screen cinema located on the first floor of the intu shopping centre extension, featuring both IMAX with Laser and ScreenX auditoriums. The IMAX screen seats up to 475 guests and delivers a powerful, immersive experience, while ScreenX uses multi-projection technology to expand the film across the side walls – engaging your peripheral vision and surrounding you in your seat. All 2D screens are equipped with Barco Laser projection, offering brilliant brightness, bold colour, and up to 40% more contrast.