Barbenheimer in Huntsville—why the hype + where/when to watch the movies

Barbenheimer is here, and it’s all the buzz in Huntsville. Some have said that the double feature perfectly describes the Rocket City, with Oppenheimer representing the long-established defense industry and Barbie depicting the newer local business and art scene.

Read on for all the details on the hype surrounding the movies, plus when and where to see them.

Record numbers

It’s no secret that the movie theater industry took a hit from COVID-19, and it’s been amazing to see the crowds flock to the theaters to see Barbie or Oppenheimer—or both through the incredible six-hour double feature.

Caitlin Piper, Public Relations Director at Cinemark, weighed in on the positive economic impact the movies have provided the Bridge Street theater.

“We are setting record after record all the way back to ‘Spiderman: No Way Home’ in winter 2021.”

Caitlin Piper, Public Relations Director, Cinemark (sourced from WAFF48)

Audrey Johnson, one of our Hville Blast Content Producers, got to see the double feature this past weekend and was amazed at the size and energy of the crowds.

“It was heartwarming to see so many people at the movies, especially when three years ago during the pandemic so many declared that cinemas were dead. Barbenheimer drummed up a theatrical hype that I haven’t felt since the midnight premiere days of ‘Twilight,’ ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘The Hunger Games.” 

Audrey Johnson, Content Producer, Hville Blast

Why the hype?

It’s amazing to see how the Huntsville community has gathered around these two films, creating a unique culture. Just a few stores down from Cinemark, you can find a special Barbie collection at Kendra Scott and downtown at Stella’s, you can find a unique Barbie menu.

“Visually stunning and incredibly fun, I’m certain that the Barbie film will cement itself as one of pop culture’s favorites for years to come. It’s one of my new favorites, too.”

Audrey Johnson, Content Producer, Hville Blast

Oppenheimer has a special appeal to the Huntsville audience due to prominence of the defense industry. Audrey saw firsthand how the topic resonated with the Huntsville community.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled that so many people were excited about a historical biopic–especially one with such little action–in a time where superhero movies have dominated the box office.”

Audrey Johnson, Content Producer, Hville Blast

Where + when to watch the movies

If you’re ready to see Barbenheimer in the Huntsville area, here are four great theaters to check out:

• AMC Valley Bend 18, 1485 Four Mile Post Road South East, Huntsville, AL 35802
• Cinemark Bridge Street + XD, 370 The Bridge Street, Huntsville, AL 35806
• Cineplanet 15, 2100 Hughes Road, Madison, AL 35758
• AMC Classic Decatur 12, 1801 Beltline Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35601

Showtimes are much more limited on the weekends, so we recommend going during the week for an even more enjoyable experience. Now you have all the information you need to enjoy these amazing movies, so go ahead and get your tickets now!

 “I’m sure Huntsville’s growing population of young people–and all of its scientists–were swept up in the movie hype just like I was.”

Audrey Johnson, Content Producer, Hville Blast

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