The Oscars might not always celebrate horror (but keep your fingers crossed for a Sinners sweep next year?) but the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures certainly does, announcing today The Horror Show, a “bold and immersive exhibition” that bridges the gap between cinema and experience, honoring horror’s enormous cultural impact and enduring popularity.
On view from September 20, 2026, to July 25, 2027, The Horror Show is described, per an official press release, as an exploration and celebration of horror cinema, highlighting select tropes and themes, and centered around the question: Why do horror films matter so deeply to so many?
The official press release tells us more:
Blurring the line between museum presentation and eerie spectacle, The Horror Show takes visitors on a journey through cinema, starting with an introduction gallery sound installation, into “The Hallway” —modeled after the common horror trope—that leads to six distinctly themed galleries: Gothic, Psychological, Science, Slasher, Religion, and Ghosts. Each gallery is distinctly designed to invite visitors into iconic settings where they will encounter their favorite creatures, monsters, and objects.
The exhibition will 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), Ring (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 exhibition will be accompanied by a catalog and public programming, including film screenings, gallery talks, and educational tours to be announced at a later date – so keep your eyes peeled for updates.
Amy Homma, Academy Museum Director and President, has the following to say of the upcoming Horror Show:
“The Horror Show recognizes horror as one of the most emotionally resonant and innovative types of filmmaking, and celebrates its radical creativity and artists […] I am excited for visitors to explore and experience filmmaking that has influenced generations.”
Senior Exhibitions Curator Jessica Niebel adds:
Throughout film history, horror has thrilled and moved audiences, acting as a powerful outlet for expression and a tool for social commentary […] 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.”
For updates and tickets, head to the Academy Museum's official site for more info.
