Special Exhibition "Director's Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho" Opens at the Academy Museum

This spring, a unique opportunity to experience the magic of cinema comes to life at the Academy Museum with the exhibition titled "Director's Inspiration: Bong Joon Ho." Dedicated to the Oscar®-winning director Bong Joon Ho, this exhibition delves deep into his creative process and cinematic world.

From 1980s Korea to imagined futures, Bong's filmography addresses transnational and universal issues such as class disparity, social injustice, environmental crises, and more. His protagonists are ordinary people—unlikely heroes who tackle the absurdities of modern life.

The exhibition provides unprecedented access to the director's personal collection and archives, showcasing over 100 original objects. These include storyboards, research materials, film posters, concept art, creature models, props, and on-set photographs. The exhibition is curated by Michelle Puetz with assistance from Nicholas Barlow, research assistants Josue Lopez and Jeongsil Yoon, and former Getty Marrow Curatorial Intern Janice Kim.

Source: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

Film Screenings and Bong Joon Ho's Inspirations

In conjunction with the exhibition, the Academy Museum is hosting a retrospective of Bong Joon Ho's first seven feature films, starting with a special screening of John Carpenter's genre classic "The Thing" (1982), a film that influenced Bong's dark, subversive style.

Screenings include high-definition presentations of "Okja," "Parasite," and "Snowpiercer," among others, with some films presented in 35mm to offer a unique viewing experience. Additionally, personal appearances by Bong Joon Ho, Steven Yeun, and Lee Sung Jin at selected screenings will provide deeper insight into the films.

Exhibition Details

The exhibition opens on Sunday, March 23rd, and the Academy Museum's exhibition galleries and store are open six days a week from 10 am to 6 pm, closing only on Tuesdays. Tickets for the exhibition and screenings must be reserved online in advance through the Academy Museum's website and mobile app.

With a range of ticket prices and free admission options available for various groups, this special exhibition and screening series offer a profound opportunity to explore the depths of Bong Joon Ho's filmic universe. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the diverse and impactful filmography of one of cinema's most celebrated directors.