One of Paris's most revered cultural institutions, the Cinémathèque Française, has been forced to temporarily close its doors to the public following the discovery of a bedbug infestation within its screening rooms.
Infestation Forces Major Closure
The internationally acclaimed film archive and cinema made the announcement that all four of its screening halls would be shut for an entire month, starting from Friday. This decisive action was taken after audience members reported being bitten by the pests, with sightings occurring during a high-profile master class featuring Hollywood icon Sigourney Weaver in early November.
Patrons who attended the event informed the French daily Le Parisien that the blood-sucking insects were seen crawling on seats and even on people's clothing. The institution has stated that this temporary closure is essential to guarantee visitors "a perfectly safe and comfortable environment" upon reopening.
Extensive Decontamination Process Begins
The Cinémathèque has launched a comprehensive and labour-intensive eradication programme to tackle the problem head-on. A spokesperson confirmed that every single seat across the four halls will be dismantled and subjected to multiple treatments with dry steam heated to 180°C.
Following this intense thermal cleansing, the seats will be systematically inspected by specially trained sniffer dogs to ensure no bugs remain. The institution's carpets are also scheduled to receive the same rigorous level of treatment.
Other Activities Continue Amid Screening Hall Shutdown
While the screening halls remain closed, other parts of the iconic building in eastern Paris will stay open to the public. This includes a current exhibition dedicated to the legendary American actor and filmmaker, Orson Welles.
The incident has reignited public concern over bedbugs in France, a problem that gained significant attention in 2023. The government had previously announced a concerted effort to combat the insects, which appeared in large numbers on public transport, in cinemas, and in hospitals as the country prepared to host the 2024 Paris Olympics.
These pests, which nest in mattresses, clothing, and luggage, cause more than just physical discomfort. Their bites can lead to red welts, intense itching, and severe allergic reactions. Victims often suffer from psychological distress, including anxiety, sleep issues, and depression.
