Academy Museum to Feature Bong Joon Ho and Iconic Production Designers in Spring Exhibitions

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles is set to captivate film enthusiasts with two major exhibitions this spring, celebrating the creative journeys of acclaimed director Bong Joon Ho and the collaborative artistry of production designers Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer.

Opening on March 23, 2025, "Director's Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho" offers an in-depth exploration of the Oscar-winning South Korean filmmaker's creative process. The exhibition features over 100 original items from Bong's personal collection, including storyboards, research materials, film posters, concept art, creature models, props, and on-set photographs. Curated by Michelle Puetz, with support from Nicholas Barlow, Josue Lopez, Jeongsil Yoon, and former Getty Marrow Intern Janice Kim, the exhibition provides a comprehensive look into Bong's cinematic world.

To complement the exhibition, the museum is presenting a retrospective screening series of Bong Joon Ho's first seven feature films, along with John Carpenter's "The Thing" (1982), a film that has influenced Bong's work. The series runs from March 22 to April 14, 2025, with Bong Joon Ho attending the first three screenings. Special guests, including John Carpenter and actors Steven Yeun and Lee Sung Jin, will participate in discussions following select screenings.

Bong Joon Ho, born on September 14, 1969, in Daegu, South Korea, is renowned for his genre-blending films that often address social themes. His notable works include "Memories of Murder" (2003), "The Host" (2006), "Snowpiercer" (2013), and "Parasite" (2019). "Parasite" made history by becoming the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Bong also received Oscars for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay for the same film.

Following on May 23, 2025, "Barbie to Anna Karenina: The Cinematic Worlds of Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer" delves into the visual concept development behind some of their most acclaimed films. The exhibition includes props, production materials, and a re-creation of their studio space, providing an immersive experience for attendees.

Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer have collaborated on numerous films, earning multiple Academy Award nominations. Their notable projects include "Anna Karenina" (2012), "Beauty and the Beast" (2017), and "Barbie" (2023).

These exhibitions underscore the Academy Museum's commitment to celebrating diverse voices and cultures that have shaped the global film community. Academy Museum director Amy Homma expressed excitement for the public to explore the imaginations and brilliance of Bong Joon Ho, Sarah Greenwood, and Katie Spencer.

By providing insights into the creative processes of influential filmmakers and designers, the exhibitions offer educational opportunities for aspiring filmmakers, designers, and film enthusiasts.

The Academy Museum's upcoming exhibitions offer a rare glimpse into the creative processes of some of the most influential figures in modern cinema. By showcasing the works of Bong Joon Ho, Sarah Greenwood, and Katie Spencer, the museum not only honors their contributions but also provides inspiration and education for future generations of filmmakers and designers.