The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has set a major horror-themed exhibition for Sept. 20 to July 25, 2027. The Horror Show at the Los Angeles museum aims to “bridge the gap between cinema and experience, honoring horror’s enormous cultural impact and enduring popularity.”
The Horror Show will celebrate horror cinema, centered around the question “Why do horror films matter so deeply to so many?” the museum said in a statement.
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“The Horror Show recognizes horror as one of the most emotionally resonant and innovative types of filmmaking, and celebrates its radical creativity and artists,” said Amy Homma, Academy Museum Director and President. “I am excited for visitors to explore and experience filmmaking that has influenced generations.”
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“Throughout film history, horror has thrilled and moved audiences, acting as a powerful outlet for expression and a tool for social commentary,” said Senior Exhibitions Curator Jessica Niebel. “Through these stories, people have found catharsis and community among fellow horror fans around the world. I can’t wait for everyone — from horror enthusiasts to the horror-curious — to see The Horror Show.”
The exhibition will unfold with an introductory sound installation leading into a hallway that introduces six galleries with themes of gothic, psychological, science, slasher, religion and ghosts.
Visitors will encounter their favorite creatures, monsters and objects, and get a behind-the-scenes look at storytelling and production, the museum said. The exhibition will also “explore representations of identity, sexuality and ability” in films including “Alien” (1979), “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984), “Black Swan” (2010), “Dracula” (1931), “Frankenstein” (1931), “Get Out” (2017), “Halloween” (1978), “Ju-on” (1998), “Midsommar” (2019), “Misery (1990), “Poltergeist” (1982), “Ringu” (1998), “The Blair Witch Project” (1999), “The Exorcist” (1973), “The Shining” (1980), “The Silence of the Lambs” (1991) and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” (1974).
The Horror Show will incorporate public programming including screenings, gallery talks and tours. The museum advises that “parental guidance is suggested for younger visitors.”
The exhibition is organized by Senior Exhibitions Curator Jessica Niebel, Assistant Curator Nicholas Barlow and Curatorial Assistant Alexandra James Salichs.
The Horror Show follows other large-scale exhibitions in the Marilyn and Jeffrey Katzenberg Gallery since the museum’s opening: Hayao Miyazaki, Regeneration: Black Cinema, John Waters: Pope of Trash, Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema and the current “Jaws” exhibition, which closes July 26.