The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures announced Thursday a sweeping 2026 exhibition lineup that will include major showcases dedicated to Marilyn Monroe, horror films, zombies, LAIKA animation and immersive cinematic lighting installations.
“With this incredible slate of exhibitions and installations, we aim to showcase an unrivaled range of film histories and genres,” Academy Museum Director and President Amy Homma said in a statement. “There is truly something for every visitor to enjoy, and countless opportunities to walk away feeling inspired by the breadth and depth of cinema’s legacy.”
The museum’s schedule includes “Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon,” opening May 31, which will feature hundreds of original objects including costumes, letters, photographs and personal materials connected to the actress and cultural icon.
Among the exhibition’s highlights are Monroe costumes from “Some Like It Hot,” a pink dress from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” and items from her unfinished final film, “Something’s Got to Give,” according to the museum.
Other major exhibitions announced include “The Horror Show,” an immersive exploration of horror filmmaking debuting Sept. 27; “Zombies!,” a family-friendly exhibit examining zombie mythology and moviemaking techniques, also opening Sept. 27; and “Hidden Worlds: The Films of LAIKA,” showcasing props, puppets and sets from the stop-motion animation studio behind “Coraline” and “Kubo and the Two Strings,” opening Dec. 13.
The museum also announced “Glow: A Cinematic Moodscape,” an installation using synchronized projections, lighting and music to explore cinematic depictions of sunrise, moonlight, neon, fireworks and other visual themes, opening July 31.
Additional installations will include Pee-wee Herman’s red bicycle from “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” and new costume displays featuring outfits from “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Dreamgirls” and “Wicked: For Good.”
The Academy Museum also announced the elevation of Shraddha Aryal to the role of chief exhibitions officer, where she will oversee exhibition planning, design and production, along with the museum’s traveling exhibitions program.