Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving ImageClick to open side panel for more information (MoMI) is a premier cultural institution located in Astoria, Queens, dedicated to the art, history, and technology of film, television, and digital media. It is unique in the United States for its comprehensive focus on how the moving image shapes our perception of the world. The museum is housed in a strikingly modern building that underwent a significant $67 million expansion in 2011, adding state-of-the-art theaters and a sleek, geometric facade that mirrors the innovation found within its galleries.
The history of the site is deeply intertwined with the origins of American cinema. Originally built in 1920 by Famous Players-Lasky (later Paramount Pictures) as their East Coast production facility, the studio saw the creation of hundreds of silent films and early "talkies." During World War II, the U.S. Army utilized the space for training film production. After falling into disrepair in the 1970s, community and industry leaders successfully campaigned to restore the complex, leading to the museum's official opening in 1988. It has since evolved from a local archive into an international center for media studies.

Recently, the museum has hosted major events that continue to redefine its role as a living cultural hub. In early 2026, MoMI launched a massive celebration of The Sopranos, featuring an extensive exhibition of scripts and set designs alongside special screenings with creator David Chase and lead cast members. Other recent highlights include the 14th edition of the "First Look" film festival, which showcases innovative international cinema, and the ongoing "Jim Henson Exhibition," which remains a cornerstone attraction for its unparalleled collection of puppets and creative artifacts.
Inside, visitors encounter "Behind the Screen," a permanent core exhibition that offers an immersive look at the creative process. This section is filled with rare artifacts, such as the chariot from Ben-Hur and makeup prosthetics from The Godfather, alongside interactive stations where guests can experiment with stop-motion animation or sound dubbing. The museum's programming is vast, screening over 400 films annually and hosting insightful dialogues with legendary filmmakers, ensuring that every visit offers a new perspective on the media we consume daily.

Museum of the Moving Image Address:
36-01 35th Ave, Queens, NY 11106

Museum of the Moving Image Website:
movingimage.org