Upcoming exhibits include ‘Studio Ghibli’s PONYO,’ opening February 14, 2026; ‘Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon,’ opening May 31, 2026; ‘Hidden Worlds: The Films of LAIKA’ opening December 13, 2026.
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has announced several exhibitions set to open in 2026, including Studio Ghibli’s PONYO, Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon, and Hidden Worlds: The Films of LAIKA.
“This incredible array of exhibitions demonstrates how the Academy Museum collaborates with filmmakers, studios, and collectors to bring to life the most compelling histories of cinema,” said Amy Homma, Academy Museum director and president. “We all look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to celebrate their favorite films and be introduced to new behind-the-scenes stories.”
Studio Ghibli’s PONYO
Studio Ghibli’s PONYO celebrates many elements of the traditional hand-drawn animation processes used throughout the film Ponyo (2008), from the magical water worlds to the unique flowing aesthetic of hand-painted drawings. An interactive animation table will be featured for visitors to create their own animated sequences, along with an immersive play environment geared towards younger visitors.
Featuring an exclusive donation of original materials from Studio Ghibli to the Academy Collection, the exhibition includes over 100 materials, including art boards, posters, an animation desk, and original hand drawings by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli.
Studio Ghibli’s PONYO is curated by senior exhibitions curator Jessica Niebel, with the support of Assistant Curator Emily Rauber Rodriguez. The exhibition runs from February 14, 2026 – January 10, 2027, and is supported in part by The Japan Foundation, Los Angeles.
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon celebrates the icon, born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, a visionary actor and image-maker, and examines how she created and shaped her public image.
Presenting hundreds of original objects, including posters, portraits, photographs, production documents, letters, and rarely seen personal materials, the exhibition will give unique insight into her agency in becoming a Hollywood icon. The exhibition also features an extensive display of Monroe’s screen-worn costumes, ranging from a dress featured in Love Happy (1949) to items from her final and unfinished film, Something’s Got to Give (1962). Major highlights include two costumes by Orry-Kelly from Some Like it Hot (1959) and the rarely exhibited pink dress by William Travilla from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953).
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon is curated by associate curator Sophia Serrano, with the support of curatorial assistant Simran Bhalla. The exhibition runs from May 31, 2026 – February 28, 2027 and is made possible in part by support from the Bryan Johns and Alec Call ICON COLLECTION.
Hidden Worlds: The Films of LAIKA
Hidden Worlds: The Films of LAIKA explores the work of the studio known for its wildly creative, enduring, and innovative films including Missing Link (2019), Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), The Boxtrolls (2014), ParaNorman (2012), and Coraline (2009). For two decades, LAIKA has revolutionized stop-motion filmmaking to tell stories that move audiences around the world. The exhibition immerses visitors in LAIKA's creative process through behind-the-scenes photography, video clips, and artwork from the films. Explore the production design, sets, props, puppets, technology, and costumes that have become the studio’s hallmarks.
Hidden Worlds: The Films of LAIKA is a traveling exhibition co-produced by LAIKA and MoPOP and runs from December 13, 2026 – September 9, 2027.
Source: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
