An exhibition to entertain film fans

From Batman to Bond, and Lord of the Rings to Jaws, an exciting exhibition that will entertain film fans and families alike, opens at Moyse’s Hall Museum this weekend.

This year’s “Sci-Fi and Action Exhibition”, hosted by the West Suffolk Council-run museum, comes with an exciting bonus: “The Art of Cinema” — an additional exhibition within an exhibition, presented in collaboration with Kudos Memorabilia, all for one family-friendly entry price.  

This special showcase will feature an incredible array of screen-used costumes and props, including the iconic Batman cowl – a legendary piece making its West Suffolk debut – created by the production team for Michael Keaton for his role in Tim Burton’s beloved 1989 film.

The exhibition, inside the Museum’s Great Hall, will also feature Ana de Armas’ hero dress from “No Time to Die”, Elizabeth Debicki’s Princess Diana “Revenge Dress” costume from “The Crown”, and the cowboy ensemble worn by Kevin Costner in “Yellowstone”.

On top of this, there will be a chance to see other screen-used pieces used by Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford, Christian Bale, and Chris Pine, as well as additional Batman items linked to the late Val Kilmer.

Stephen Rivers, the director of Kudos Memorabilia, said: “We’re excited to share these iconic pieces of cinematic history, which are being shown in West Suffolk for the very first time.

“Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Batman is widely regarded by fans as the definitive version of the character, so we expect strong interest from enthusiasts of Tim Burton’s film, DC Comics, and superhero culture – all eager for the rare opportunity to see an original, production-made cowl up close.

“But this exhibition goes far beyond Gotham — with remarkable costumes and props from iconic film and TV franchises, including ‘Star Wars’, ‘James Bond’, ‘Terminator’, ‘Star Trek’ and ‘The Crown’. 

“We’re delighted to partner with West Suffolk Council and the team at Moyse’s Hall Museum to bring this wonderful celebration of cinema to life.”

Alongside the “Art of Cinema”, Moyse’s will be marking the 70th anniversary of the first publication of J R R Tolkien’s completed trilogy – “The Lord of the Rings”.

Visitors will be able to see film props and historic collections, as well as take part in trails and quizzes.

And Moyse’s will also be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” with production used artwork on display.

As part of “The Art of Cinema” exhibition, sci-fi fans will be able to see a blaster from “The Empire Strikes Back” and a stormtrooper helmet from “The Rise of Skywalker”.

Many other interesting collectibles and fun objects will also be on display from the Star Wars franchise.

Younger visitors can enjoy a droid workshop and other family activities as part of the  rockets and robots fun.

Ian Shipp, the cabinet member for Leisure at West Suffolk Council, said: “We recognise the importance of leisure and culture in West Suffolk and that’s why we and continuing to invest in a programme of activities and events to help our communities thrive.

“Our ‘Sci-Fi and Action Exhibition’ is a popular feature on our events calendar attracting people of all ages from across West Suffolk and beyond.

“But this year’s event is shaping up to be even better both for families enjoying a day out and for the serious film fans. We can’t wait to welcome people from this weekend.”

The “Sci-Fi and Action Exhibition” opens from this Saturday (October 25) and will run until February 22.

The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm with lasty admission at 4pm.

It is open 12 noon to 4pm on Sundays with last admission at 3pm.

Under 5s go free but must be accompanied by an adult.

For ticket details visit www.moyseshall.org/whats-on/details.cfm?id=1045347&ins=1715590

People who buy an annual heritage ticket in advance will be able to return to enjoy the Sci-Fi and Action exhibition at no extra cost, and access all of Moyse’s exhibitions throughout the year as well as West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village.

See www.moyseshall.org/your-visit/Admission-prices.cfm for more details.