The Horror Show

About the exhibition

Just in time for Halloween 2026, the Academy Museum will unveil The Horror Show, a bold and immersive exhibition honoring horror’s enormous cultural impact and enduring popularity.

On view from September 26, 2026, to July 25, 2027, The Horror Show will explore and celebrate horror cinema, all centered around the question: Why do horror films matter so deeply to so many?

Blurring the line between museum presentation and eerie spectacle, The Horror Show will take visitors on a journey through “The Hallway” and six distinctly themed galleries: Gothic, Psychological, Science, Slasher, Religion, and Ghosts. Each gallery invites visitors into iconic settings, where they will encounter their favorite creatures, monsters, and objects.

The exhibition will explore representations of identity, sexuality, and ability in horror films 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. Additional support by THI Moving Image Lab Curatorial Fellow Bradford Nordeen.

This exhibition explores themes that may not be suitable for all ages and may disturb some visitors. Parental guidance is advised.