The Academy Museum is launching “The Horror Show,” a exhibition exploring over a century of horror cinema starting September 26. The showcase features original props, costumes, and immersive environments, including a specialized “Blood Room” dedicated to the textures of cinematic gore. The exhibition remains open through July 25, 2027.
Thematic Architecture of The Horror Show
Rather than a timeline, the Academy Museum organized the exhibition into six thematic “chambers.” These categories include gothic, psychological, science, slasher, religion, and ghosts. This structure allows visitors to trace specific strains of terror across different eras of film.
The museum highlights landmark titles to illustrate these themes, ranging from the early days of Dracula to modern entries like Get Out and The Substance. Other featured films include Psycho, Alien, Halloween, The Exorcist, and The Ring.
Did you know? The exhibition includes a “Blood Room,” an immersive installation where guests can explore the various shades and textures of fake blood used in movie production.
Industry Perspectives on Horror’s Cultural Impact
The museum assembled an advisory board to curate the experience, featuring actor Willem Dafoe and Longlegs director Osgood Perkins. Both emphasize that horror operates differently than other cinematic genres.
According to a statement released by the museum, Dafoe noted that while cinema generally engages a sense of wonder, horror has the capacity to “explode it.” Director Osgood Perkins described the genre as “crucial to culture and cinema,” likening the exhibition to a “hallway of limitless doors to be opened and explored.”
Programming and High-Profile Events
The exhibition coincides with a series of public programs designed for genre enthusiasts. The museum will host a 50th anniversary screening of Carrie featuring Sissy Spacek in attendance.
Other scheduled events include:
- A John Carpenter retrospective.
- A celebration of the legacy of Hammer Films.
- “Museum After Dark” events.
- The annual Halloween Monster Mash family program.
Pro Tip: Because the museum advises that some materials may be disturbing, parents should review the content warnings before bringing younger children to the immersive installations.
Comparing Immersive Success at the Academy Museum
The Academy Museum is leveraging a proven track record with large-scale immersive exhibits to drive attendance. “The Horror Show” follows the success of previous installations, such as those dedicated to Hayao Miyazaki and the Jaws celebration.
By moving away from traditional chronological displays and toward the “chamber” model, the museum is mirroring the success of “Backrooms” and “Obsession,” which emphasize atmosphere and environmental storytelling over static viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does The Horror Show open and close?
The exhibition debuts on September 26 and will remain on view until July 25, 2027.
What is the “Blood Room”?
It is an immersive installation at the exit of the exhibition that explores the different textures and colors of cinematic blood.
Who was on the advisory board for the exhibition?
The board included actor Willem Dafoe and director Osgood Perkins.
What is your favorite horror movie prop or practical effect? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on cinema history.
