EnglishLA-Event - The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures : A Thriving Hub of Cinema, Celebrating the Past, Innovating for the Future
By Mulder, Los Angeles, The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, 29 july 2024
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, a landmark institution dedicated to the art, science, and history of cinema, continues to solidify its place as one of the most significant cultural hubs in the world. Since its opening in 2021, the museum has attracted millions of visitors with its innovative exhibitions, comprehensive film screenings, and a wide range of educational programs. As 2024 unfolds, the museum is not only expanding its offerings but also redefining its role as a beacon of cinematic exploration and preservation.
This fall, the Academy Museum has curated a series of events and exhibitions that highlight both the rich history of cinema and its evolving future. One of the standout events is "Godzilla-Thon," an all-day marathon scheduled for November 3, 2024, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the release of the original Gojira film. This event will feature screenings of five classic and contemporary Godzilla films, providing audiences with a deep dive into the legacy of one of cinema's most iconic monsters. The marathon is complemented by interactive experiences, including a stop-motion animation workshop and a meet-and-greet with Godzilla, catering to fans of all ages.
Another major event on the museum's calendar is the fourth Annual Academy Museum Gala, set for October 19, 2024. This gala is one of the most anticipated events in Hollywood, bringing together some of the biggest names in the film industry. This year, the gala will honor Paul Mescal, Quentin Tarantino, and Rita Moreno—three luminaries who have made significant contributions to cinema. Mescal will receive the Vantage Award for his role in challenging dominant narratives in cinema, Tarantino will be honored with the Luminary Award for his groundbreaking work as a filmmaker, and Moreno will receive the Icon Award for her enduring cultural impact across eight decades of acting.
The funds raised during the gala are crucial for the museum’s operations, supporting a variety of programs, including K-12 education initiatives, public screenings, and exhibitions that are accessible to a broad audience. These programs are part of the museum's broader mission to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of cinema among diverse communities.
The museum’s exhibitions continue to push the boundaries of what a film museum can offer. This fall, two new major exhibitions will be accompanied by richly illustrated catalogues that delve into the themes of color in cinema and the influence of cyberpunk on film culture. Color in Motion: Chromatic Explorations of Cinema takes visitors on a journey through the history and significance of color in film, from the earliest hand-painted frames to modern digital color techniques. The exhibition features rare film prints and insightful commentary from scholars and filmmakers, offering a comprehensive look at how color has shaped cinematic storytelling.
Cyberpunk: Envisioning Possible Futures through Cinema explores the global impact of the cyberpunk genre, highlighting its influence on both mainstream and independent cinema. The exhibition includes behind-the-scenes photographs, concept art, and film stills from seminal works like Blade Runner and The Matrix, as well as more recent films that continue to draw inspiration from the genre. Through these exhibitions, the museum not only preserves the history of cinema but also engages with the ongoing evolution of film as an art form.
In addition to its focus on the artistic aspects of filmmaking, the Academy Museum is also deeply involved in the technical side of the industry. The Academy’s Scientific and Technical Awards Committee has announced investigations into 11 new areas of innovation for the 2024 awards. These include advancements in areas such as character dental prosthetics, in-camera visual effects rendering, and heat-protective gels for stunt performers. These investigations highlight the museum’s commitment to recognizing and fostering technological advancements that enhance the art of filmmaking.
The results of these investigations will be presented at the Scientific and Technical Awards ceremony on February 18, 2025, further solidifying the museum’s role as a leader in the preservation and celebration of both the art and science of cinema.
The museum continues to prioritize public engagement through a variety of ongoing series and programs. Oscar® Sundays is a weekly series that showcases Oscar-winning films in the museum's David Geffen Theater, with this season focusing on Western films. Family Matinees are held every Saturday, offering family-friendly screenings of beloved films from the past, such as favorites from 1999 and classic Universal monster movies.
Additionally, the museum offers Drop-in Tours and Workshops for both teens and families, allowing visitors to engage directly with the museum’s exhibits and educational content. These programs are designed to be accessible and interactive, making the museum a welcoming space for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
As the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its mission of celebrating the magic of cinema while also pushing the boundaries of how we understand and engage with this art form. With its innovative exhibitions, star-studded events, and commitment to both artistic and technical excellence, the museum is poised to remain a vital part of Los Angeles' cultural landscape and a global destination for film lovers.
The future looks bright for the Academy Museum, as it continues to inspire and educate visitors, preserving the past while embracing the future of cinema. Whether you are a lifelong cinephile or a casual moviegoer, the Academy Museum offers something for everyone, ensuring that the magic of film remains alive and accessible to all.
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Photos and video : Boris Colletier / Mulderville