Viewer complains about stuffy air at Alfa cinema; company explains what happened
A LA.LV reader reported an unbearably hot and stuffy screening at the cinema in the Alfa shopping centre. The cinema’s management apologised and explained that the ventilation system needs time to adapt to sudden temperature changes.
A reader named Lauris contacted the LA.LV editorial office to share an unpleasant experience at the Cinamon cinema in the Alfa shopping centre. He said that during a screening the hall became so hot and stuffy that he could no longer focus on the film. Although the hall was not full, other viewers nearby also expressed similar dissatisfaction.
Lauris bought popcorn and a drink before the film, and everything was fine for roughly the first half. Then the air became unbearable, with almost no oxygen to breathe. He noted that the day was relatively cool and rainy, so he dreads to think what conditions are like when the outside temperature reaches 30 degrees.
Company’s response
LA.LV contacted Valentīna Zvodska, manager of Cinamon Akropole Alfa, who said that visitor comfort and a quality cinema experience are a priority and that every such case is carefully reviewed. She explained that the ventilation and air conditioning systems are maintained and monitored by the shopping centre’s engineering department. The system is designed to maintain a comfortable temperature of around 22 degrees throughout the year and ensure adequate air exchange.
However, during rapid weather or temperature fluctuations, the automated system may need time to adapt to new conditions. The cinema regularly informs the shopping centre’s technical service, which adjusts the system if necessary. The company also stressed that even after settings are changed, temperature and air quality do not improve immediately – because of the large hall, the ventilation system needs time for air to circulate evenly. On busier days, when screenings follow one another and the halls are full, the space and seats accumulate heat, so full cooling can take longer.
Viewers urged to report discomfort
The cinema urges visitors not to stay silent if they feel uncomfortable during a screening – if the hall becomes too hot or air runs short, they should immediately inform the staff. This allows employees to quickly contact the technical service and address the problem. If a visitor remains unsatisfied after the show, they are invited to contact the administration, and each case will be considered individually. All feedback and complaints are passed on to the shopping centre’s management and technical specialists to avoid similar situations in the future.
Manager Valentīna Zvodska apologised to the viewer for the inconvenience and said she hopes to welcome him back for a much more pleasant screening.
