Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Grand Opening

The long-delayed Academy Museum of Motion Pictures will have its grand opening in LA at the end of September. This highly anticipated event features an inaugural exhibition celebrating the iconic Japanese animator and Academy Award winner, Hayao Miyazaki.

Opening Dates and Virtual Programming

The museum will welcome its first visitors on 30 September. However, a series of virtual programs will commence on 22 April, coinciding with the Oscars. These digital prologues to the Academy Museum’s core exhibition, Stories of Cinema, will introduce varied voices of film artists and share their inspirations and collaborations while exploring the art, technology, history, and social impact of movies.

Opening Programs and Exhibits

The first program titled Breaking the Oscars’ Ceiling, features a conversation hosted by Academy Museum trustee, Diane von Furstenberg, and moderated by Jacqueline Stewart. They will engage with women who have achieved historic milestones at the Oscars, including actors Sophia Loren, Whoopi Goldberg, Marlee Matlin, and singer-songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie.

A Glimpse into the Museum’s Design

Renowned architect Renzo Piano designed the museum, initially slated for a 2017 opening. Due to fundraising challenges and delays, the museum will now feature two theaters. These include the 1000-seat David Geffen Theater and the 288-seat Ted Mann Theater, both of which will showcase a range of films celebrating cinema’s rich history.

Spotlight on Hayao Miyazaki

The museum’s inaugural temporary exhibition, Hayao Miyazaki, will present all of the legendary animator’s features with English subtitles and dubbing. Moreover, an additional series will explore the worlds and narratives crafted by Miyazaki throughout his extensive career, which includes the founding of Studio Ghibli.

Insights from the Film Community

Family members of Hollywood legends will share their insights on the legacy of film artists. Additionally, discussions will involve film professionals, scholars, and activists, covering the intricate relationship between documentary and narrative films. Topics addressed include #MeToo, pay equity, Black Lives Matter, climate change, and labor relations.

Further details on the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures can be found on its website here.

This article was first published on 1 February 2019 and updated on 12 March 2021.