In the wake of the swine flu clampdown, Mexico's cinemas have no re-opened for business, but precautions aimed at restricting the spread of the disease mean that things can't be said to have gone back to normal.
Because of the risk of contracting flu from particles expelled in the breath, cinema patrons are required to sit at least seven feet from one another, dramatically reducing capacity. They also have to wash their hands in cleansing alcohol solution and apply antibiotic gel before taking their seats. There are also new rules for staff, who must all wear rubber masks and must scrub down the seats and aisles with bleach between screenings. Those serving food are required to wear rubber gloves.
Despite this, and despite the risk that still exists, audiences seem keen to return, looking forward to a bit of escapism after the stress of recent days. Cinema-going is enormously popular in Mexico and many fans have been looking forward to the new Star Trek and Wolverine movies as well as local productions.
