Copyright Deadline
Get ready to scream. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures announced today that it will debut “The Horror Show,” a groundbreaking and immersive exhibition designed to bridge the gap between cinema and experience, while celebrating horror’s profound cultural impact and enduring popularity. On view from September 20, 2026, to July 25, 2027, the exhibition promises a deep exploration of horror cinema, built around the compelling question: “Why do horror films matter so deeply to so many?” “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.” The exhibition is set to take a unique approach, deliberately blurring the line between a traditional museum presentation and an eerie spectacle. Visitors will embark on a cinematic journey, starting with an introduction gallery sound installation, before entering “The Hallway”—modeled after a common horror trope—which leads to six distinctly themed galleries: Gothic, Psychological, Science, Slasher, Religion, and Ghosts. Each gallery will be designed to immerse visitors in iconic settings where they will encounter their favorite creatures, monsters, and objects from legendary films. “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 also explores representations of identity, sexuality, and ability in horror 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)—while also offering a behind-the-scenes look at the storytelling and production processes of these films. “The Horror Show” is organized by Senior Exhibitions Curator Jessica Niebel with Assistant Curator Nicholas Barlow and Curatorial Assistant Alexandra James Salichs.
