Cinémathèque Française (French Cinematheque) in Paris. Photo: JACQUES DEMARTHON / AFP / Profimedia
The prestigious Cinémathèque Française (French Cinematheque, no) in Paris has announced its temporary closure due to a bed bug infestation, reports The Guardian.
The institution, known internationally for its film archive and cinematheque screenings, said in a statement that it will close its four theaters for a month starting Friday.
The measure comes after several complaints about the presence of bed bugs and aims to ensure “a perfectly safe and comfortable environment” for spectators, the statement said.
In early November, several spectators reported to the French press that they were bitten by bedbugs after a masterclass given by Oscar-nominated actress Sigourney Weaver, known for her roles in Alien and Avatar.
An onlooker told French daily Le Parisien that the bedbugs were “climbing on chairs and clothes”.
At the French Cinematheque, located in eastern Paris, three of the screening rooms are open to the public, while the fourth is used for educational activities.
“All chairs will be dismantled and treated individually with steam at 180°C, several times, then systematically checked with the help of dogs,” the institution stated. And the carpets will get the “same level” of treatment.
Other areas of the building will remain open, including the exhibition dedicated to American actor and filmmaker Orson Welles.
In 2023, the French government announced a sweeping plan to combat bed bugs after they appeared in large numbers on transport, in cinemas and in hospitals amid preparations for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In 2024, authorities claimed that public panic in the fall of 2023 was amplified by disinformation campaigns promoted by Russian-linked social media accounts.
Bed bugs hide in mattresses, but they can also be found in clothes or luggage. Bites cause red spots, blisters or extensive irritation on the skin and may cause intense itching or allergic reactions.
Infestations can also cause psychological effects, such as sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression.
