Post by : Badri Ariffin

The famed Cinematheque Francaise in Paris has closed its four screening halls for a month following multiple reports of bedbugs, including during a crowded master class with Hollywood star Sigourney Weaver. The institution announced this precautionary measure on Friday, declaring that it aims to create a “perfectly safe and comfortable environment” for its audience.

The decision comes after weeks of growing concern. In early November, attendees reported being bitten and witnessing bedbugs during Weaver’s master class, with some claiming to have seen the pests crawling on seats and clothing. The surge of complaints led the institution to take immediate and extensive action.

Situated in eastern Paris, the Cinematheque typically features three public screening halls, with a fourth dedicated to educational programs. Now, all four are closed for intensive cleaning. Each seat will be disassembled and treated with 180°C dry steam on multiple occasions before thorough inspections by specially trained sniffer dogs. Similarly, carpets and flooring will undergo this rigorous treatment.

Despite the closure of the screening halls, other sections of the building, including its current exhibition on Orson Welles, will remain open. Nonetheless, the cessation of film screenings represents an unusual and significant interruption for this prestigious archive, recognized for safeguarding decades of cinematic heritage.

Bedbug issues have enhanced scrutiny across France in recent years, with outbreaks reported in cinemas, hospitals, and public transport as the nation prepares for the 2024 Olympics. The rising incident rate has ignited a nationwide cleanup initiative and widespread concern, compounded by online speculation.

Bedbugs generally conceal themselves in mattresses, clothes, luggage, and crevices. Their bites can result in red spots, itching, and swelling, often causing stress and sleep disturbances for those affected.

Currently, the Cinematheque aims to finalize its cleanup by next month, hoping to greet film enthusiasts again once every hall has successfully passed safety inspections and returned to regular operations.

#Global News