Post by : Bianca
Haleem
The famed Cinematheque Francaise in Paris has shut its doors for a month due to multiple reported bedbug sightings, particularly during a well-attended master class featuring the celebrated Sigourney Weaver. The facility announced this necessary closure to guarantee a “completely safe and enjoyable environment” for its patrons.
This decision comes amidst growing concern among visitors. Reports of bites and visible bedbugs being spotted surfaced as early as November, especially during Weaver’s session, with attendees informing French media that they had seen the pests crawling on seats and personal belongings. The influx of complaints necessitated immediate action.
Situated in eastern Paris, the Cinematheque typically features three public screening halls while reserving a fourth for educational programs. Currently, all four halls are closed for extensive cleaning. Each seat will undergo dismantling and will be treated multiple times using 180°C dry steam, followed by inspections with trained sniffer dogs. Carpets and floors will receive equal attention during the cleaning process.
While the rest of the venue, including an exhibition on Orson Welles, remains open, this temporary halt in film screenings marks one of the rare disruptions to this renowned archive that preserves extensive cinematic history.
Bedbug issues have increasingly plagued various locations across France in recent years. The incidents have been reported in cinemas, health facilities, and even public transport as the country gears up for the 2024 Olympics. This outbreak spurred a nationwide clean-up initiative and heightened public awareness, further fueled by online discussions.
Bedbugs are known to hide in various places such as mattresses, clothes, luggage, and crevices. Their bites can result in red marks, itching, and swelling, often leading to stress and anxiety for those affected.
Cinematheque officials aim to finalize the cleaning by next month, looking forward to reopening once every screening hall passes safety assessments and is ready for normal operations.
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