The future of the CinePlanet 15 Cinema is unknown as construction has stopped at the site behind Publix on busy U.S. 72 in Madison.

Cinema Management Group President Ambarish Keshani (left) speaks on May 1, 2015, during a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new CinePlanet 15 Cinema. Madison Mayor Troy Trulock (right) looks on. (Lucy Berry | lberry@al.com)

Memphis-based Cinema Management Group announced last year it would begin work on a 15-screen facility with stadium seating, high-back rocker seats, digital sound equipment and other state-of-the-art features. The theater, which was slightly behind schedule in May due to rainy weather, was supposed to open by Christmas in time for the blockbuster "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."

The city of Madison said the company, owned by President Ambarish Keshani, has not requested any inspections since September. The building permit is set to expire in about 60 days, with the option of an extension.

"We have not received an explanation as to the delay and will give it some more time," said Mary Beth Broeren, director of planning and economic development for the city.

Multiple attempts to reach Cinema Management Group by phone and email this month were unsuccessful. Calls to Huntsville contractor Consolidated Construction Company were not returned this week.

The $5 to $8 million theater is supposed to employ about 50 workers, with the possibility of further development at the property. At the time CinePlanet 15 was announced, Cinema Management Group said it also had 12- and 16-screen projects under development in Mississippi and Arkansas.

Cinema Management Group currently lists three properties on its website: CinePlanet 16 in Atoka, Tenn., and Hollywood 16 and Cinema Planet 10, both in Jackson, Tenn. The digital-projection theaters are still in operation.

The CinePlanet 15, the first movie theater in Madison, will allow customers to buy tickets before their movie by visiting the theater's website or box office or using their smartphone. The facility is designed to have multiple ticket stations, handicap seating, a concession area and arcade.

Customers with hearing problems will also have access to closed captioning and assisted listening devices to make their movie experience more enjoyable.

Here is an Aug. 21, 2015 flyover video of the theater from Todd Freestone:

Check AL.com for updates as more information is available.