"It's a bird...it's a plane...it's Superman!" Authentic memorabilia of the classic cultural icon which has transcended generations is just one of many reasons to check out
The London Film Museum.
You won't find any dusty geology display cabinets or scary-looking taxidermy here! The London Film Museum (formerly known as the London Movieum) is part museum, part attraction and definitely a fun outing for visitors of all ages. It is a unique place as it's the only museum in the UK solely dedicated to film history and film making.
Since the museum opened its doors in just 2008, the collection of memorabilia from both classic and contemporary feature films is continually growing. You will find displays of props, costumes and sets including an original Superman outfit worn by Christopher Reeve, and Joaquin Phoenix and Russell Crowe's outfits from Gladiator.
The museum's current feature is "
Charlie Chaplin – The Great Londoner." The exhibition celebrates the life of Charles Chaplin, the boy who rose from the slums of London to become an international household name due to his screen character of the Tramp and eventually received the honour of Knight Commander of the British Empire at the age of 85, just two years before his death. Gain knowledge and insight into the colourful world of a man who is considered to be one of the most influential and creative personalities of the silent-film era.
For something a bit different, book tickets to the special event "Counted" – a documentary play about British democracy. This year, the lowest voter turnout is expected in modern history and the show investigates that why people don't vote, especially in a world that fights so hard for democratic rights.
Also on temporarily, to coincide with the release of the new "
Clash of the Titans" film, the museum has been loaned five of the incredible costumes from the film. These will be on display on the Red Carpet until mid-May so get down there before it closes.
Other attractions of the museum include information about the history of some of Britain's film studios, interview footage with famous actors, and an animation gallery. Take away your own souvenir by having your picture taken on a recreation of the Star Wars Tantive IV set.
It may not be the biggest or most famous of London's plethora of museums, but it's certainly a nice choice for film and entertainment buffs.
