Cartagena (Colombia). A bizarre and unexpected incident occurred during a screening of the movie ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ at a multiplex in Cartagena, Colombia. Hundreds of moviegoers had to abandon their seats and leave the theater midway through the show. The cause was neither a technical glitch, a fire, nor a security alert, but a sudden, overpowering, and unbearable stench that filled the auditorium. According to media reports, the odor was allegedly caused by a viewer’s uncontrollable flatulence.
Reports indicate that the incident took place on August 2 at the Cine Colombia multiplex located in the Plaza Bocagrande shopping center in Cartagena. A large crowd was present in the theater to watch the highly anticipated superhero film. Initially, the screening proceeded normally and the audience was enjoying the movie, but shortly thereafter, a strong stench suddenly permeated the entire auditorium.
According to eyewitnesses, people initially tried to ignore it, dismissing it as a minor occurrence; however, within minutes, the smell became so intense that remaining in the theater became unbearable. Many covered their noses, while others began leaving their seats. Eventually, the situation escalated to the point where a large number of people abandoned the film and gathered in the multiplex corridors.
Videos that went viral on social media show hundreds of moviegoers—including children, families, and young people—gathered in the corridor outside the multiplex. One individual dressed in a Spider-Man costume is also visible, standing outside the theater alongside the crowd. Meanwhile, multiplex staff were seen attempting to calm the audience and restore order.
Media reports claim the stench was caused by the uncontrollable flatulence of an unidentified viewer. However, no specific individual has been officially identified in connection with the incident, nor has the multiplex management held any particular viewer responsible. Therefore, the actual cause of the incident could not be independently verified.
Following the incident, the theater management evacuated the auditorium temporarily to allow the air inside to normalize. Attempts were made to clear the odor by activating the ventilation system. Once conditions returned to normal, the film screening resumed, or alternative arrangements were made for the affected audience, although official details regarding this remain limited.
Videos and photos of this unusual incident went viral rapidly on social media. Many users responded with humor; some remarked that this was perhaps “Spider-Man’s strangest villain,” while others dubbed it “superpowered gas.” Meanwhile, others noted that such incidents could create uncomfortable situations in public spaces and urged theater management to pay special attention to ventilation systems.
Experts state that in an enclosed auditorium with inadequate ventilation, any strong odor can quickly permeate the entire hall, naturally causing discomfort among the audience. However, most modern multiplexes are equipped with advanced air conditioning and ventilation systems for airflow and purification, making it easier to handle such situations.
Due to its unusual nature, the incident has become a topic of discussion in both international media and on social media. While reports of screenings being halted due to technical glitches, power outages, or security concerns are common, the evacuation of an entire auditorium solely because of a foul odor is considered extremely rare.
Currently, there are no reports of injuries or damage resulting from the incident. Nevertheless, the matter continues to spark conversation and amusement among the public. Thanks to the viral videos, the event is making headlines worldwide and is being regarded as one of the most unique cinema-related incidents in recent times.
