The Mystic Museum in Burbank, Calif., has unleashed an all-new immersive experience that pays bloody tribute to 90s slashers! My interest was piqued when the oddities shop announced the event, and I had the chance to attend the recent grand opening. Horror fans are in for quite a treat, and I’m giving a peek inside for those dying to find out more.
I must start off by saying that this was my first time back at The Mystic Museum in three years. I can’t believe it’s been that long, so this visit was overdue. The establishment has gone through fascinating changes, such as expanding and adding a permanent attraction called Camp Horror, and has started to host events again.
Before I headed out, I started my morning watching Eli Roth’s History of Horror series on Shudder. If you haven’t watched it, I highly recommend you do. There were two episodes discussing slasher films, which was perfect for the occasion and completely put me in the right mindset. Roth summed up the genre perfectly at the end of the third episode when he states, “More than any other monster in horror, the slasher taps into our primal fear of the predator. And when that predator comes in human form, you have to wonder, “Will I be the resourceful survivor…or just another kill?”
Now, for details on the exhibit. At the entrance, Ghostface from the movie Scream greeted patrons, ushering us into the realm of horrors. There was a fun photo op I did before proceeding, which made for a terrifying keepsake. The first part of the installation brought a wave of nostalgia and felt like being back at my favorite video rental store. Of course, iconic scary movie titles lined the shelves.
The first room was an impressive homage to Scream. There was a setup inspired by the unforgettable opening scene where the villain makes his first kill. Who can forget the exploding popcorn Casey leaves on the stovetop as she’s harassed on the phone? In the same space was a living room where you can sit and watch yourself on the TV screen…creepy. You can really go crazy taking pictures in this area, and a staff member helped my husband and me get a fun shot.
In a dark corner was a photo op for The Silence of the Lambs. It recreates the scene where Buffalo Bill is holding his victim hostage below in a well in his basement. A clip is on loop straight above with the crazed killer looking down, giving you the sensation that you’re trapped in his cell.
“More than any other monster in horror, the slasher taps into our primal fear of the predator. And when that predator comes in human form, you have to wonder, “Will I be the resourceful survivor…or just another kill?”
-Eli Roth, History of Horror
The next room had multiple exhibits dedicated to horror classics such as Child’s Play and its sinister Chucky doll, Candyman, and the original Japanese film Ring. The final area had a display from I Know What You Did Last Summer, giving a nod to the fisherman and killer Ben Willis sailing on his boat.
The exhibition was filled with attractions at every turn. Artwork inspired by the horror flicks decorated the walls and there were several props spread throughout, which guests could wield to their delight when taking photos. Before entering, there’s also an option to purchase a fake knife, which you can gently stab into certain portals located throughout the installation for extra frightening surprises.
If you really want to check out the 90s Slashers immersive event, but can’t make it anytime soon, not to worry. It’s slated to remain up until the end of the year! General admission is $16 per person and it’s open during the shop’s regular business hours.
Vamp Jenn's Corner 
What a feast for the senses and for the imagination! It’s one thing to watch things happen on the screen, safe in the knowledge this is happening to someone else, but to be part of the action… No escape this time!
Oh, I love your advice about using the fake knife “gently” at each exhibit. My guess is that certain people had to be so instructed, else “you’re having trouble understanding this, aren’t you?”
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Getting the chance to insert myself into scenes of these iconic horror films was fun! Funnily enough, there were signs that directed to use the knife gently😄
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Good thing, that, as some people (and not just little kids) would be dying to go all Norman Bates on the situation.
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Looks awesome! 90’s slashers are some of my favourite films, especially the Scream series. Few films sum up that generation like them. Great post, Jenn!
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I agree! The other night, my husband and I watched I Know What You Did Last Summer because we were feeling nostalgic. Thank you for reading!
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Wow! This looks like such a fun time. Also, solid recommendation with Eli Roth’s History of Horror series. It’s so good! 🙂
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Thanks! I can’t believe it took me so long to see History of Horror, but I am loving it.
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