ACMI is delighted to present the world premiere of Lifelike – a joyful, surprising and deeply human exhibition celebrating the magic of on-screen puppetry in all its forms. Sure to tug at the heartstrings and spark wonder, nostalgia, fear and fascination Lifelike invites audiences behind the scenes to explore how memorable movie characters come to life.
Opening on 20 November, the ACMI-curated exhibition features original puppets, rarely seen sketches, concept art and behind-the-scenes materials from screen worlds including Pinocchio, Anomalisa, Jurassic Park, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, the Alien series, Jim Henson's The Muppets and Australian television favourites including Agro and Ozzie Ostrich from the 1980s and 1990s.
ACMI Director & CEO Seb Chan said: "We are delighted to present the ACMI-curated Lifelike exhibition this summer, which gives adventurous and inquisitive visitors the opportunity to go behind the scenes to explore and revisit how some of the most memorable on-screen characters from the 1970s to now come to life through practical FX and puppetry. We know this exhibition will bring excitement, delight and occasional fright to visitors, and will help inspire the next generation of screen storytellers to imagine the possibility of world creating and handmade craft on screen."
Minister for Creative Industries Vicki Ward said: "This is exactly the kind of world-class cultural experience that makes Victoria the creative capital of Australia. ACMI continues to prove why it's one of our state's most important cultural institutions, drawing visitors from across the country and supporting local jobs in our screen and creative industries."
Through dedicated thematic sections and experiences, the exhibition unpacks the role of imagination, iconic characters, illusions, nostalgia, terror and emotional bonds.
Trace the evolution of puppetry in filmmaking through the mischievous adventures of Pinocchio. Featuring a wooden Pinocchio from the 1970s, plus posters, production materials, and the original Pinocchio and Geppetto puppets from Guillermo del Toro's 2022 stop-motion film, visitors are invited into the story of one of cinema’s most beloved characters.
Explore the works of acclaimed filmmaker Charlie Kaufman, including marionettes from quirky fan-favourite film Being John Malkovich, plus behind-the-scenes content and both protagonist puppets from stop-motion masterpiece Anomalisa.
Spring into the wild imagination of Jim Henson with four original puppets including Sherlock Hemlock, Brad and Bertha from Sesame Street, screen content and concept sketches from The Muppet Show, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. Try your hand at on-screen puppetry with an interactive experience inspired by the techniques pioneered by Henson, which highlights the craft behind the creations.
Dive into the world of fantastic creatures with a video essay about digital puppetry and the giants of the big screen featuring Jurassic Park, alongside King Kong and Godzilla. Then explore rare concept sketches from beloved Spielberg creation, E.T.
Brave visitors can face their fears and learn how animatronics work by bringing an Alien Facehugger puppet to life, explore the creepy crawly with an original puppet from the movie Sting, and dive into the fear of the unknown with a dedicated experience in the Nightmare Room. Featuring synchronised screens, sound, movement and shadows, the line between screen and reality thrillingly blurs with The Babadook, Annabelle and Chucky, placing the visitor in the role of the protagonist in this fun and frightening experience.
Step out of the Nightmare Room into 1980s and 1990s nostalgia with a section focused on Australian TV. The wholesome and fun display features puppets and screen content from titles including Hey Hey It’s Saturday, Agro and The Ferals.
Lifelike is proudly supported by Major Technology Partner Panasonic, Major University Partner RMIT University and Official Hotel Partner Sofitel Melbourne On Collins.
Pre-sale tickets are available to ACMI Members and those who join the Lifelike waitlist from 25 August. General public tickets go on sale from 9am, 3 September through here.
Listing Information
Lifelike
20 November 2026 – 18 April 2027
ACMI, Fed Square, Melbourne
acmi.net.au
Ticketing information
Full tickets are $27 with special prices for Concession, Students, ACMI Members, school groups and under 16s. Children under 4 are FREE. Discount Group (6+) and Family prices are available. To book tickets visit acmi.net.au
About ACMI
ACMI is your museum of screen culture. Watch, play, make and discover the universe of screen-based art, films, TV and videogames. Visit us in Melbourne’s Fed Square, online and on tour. Our museum attracts millions of visitors through a vibrant offer of exhibitions, screenings, commissions and festivals. ACMI’s industry, education and creative incubator programs inspire and develop the next generation of screen creatives. We are a globally recognised hub that connects people, communities, technology and ideas to shape our futures. More at acmi.net.au.