Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit
Sint Maarten
The Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit is a specialized museum located in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, dedicated to the work of Nick Maley, a renowned special effects make-up artist famous for his contributions to the Star Wars franchise, particularly the creation of Yoda. The museum houses a vast collection of movie memorabilia spanning nearly nine decades of film history, including original production-used relics from iconic movies such as Star Wars, Superman, Alien, and The Terminator. It was originally called Planet Paradise before being renamed to honor Maley's nickname, "That Yoda Guy." Beyond its role as a museum, it serves as a non-profit foundation encouraging children to pursue their dreams through the arts. The exhibit also features Maley's Caribbean artwork and offers visitors the chance to meet the artist himself. The museum is highly regarded by cruise lines and visitors alike, known as one of the most unique enterprises in the Caribbean. Its small, intimate setting provides an insider's glimpse into Hollywood's creature effects and special make-up artistry.
Plan your trip to Netherlands with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's opening hours before planning their visit, as they can vary, especially on Mondays and Saturdays when ship arrivals influence opening times. The museum is usually closed on Sundays but may open if cruise ships are in port. Purchasing tickets or memorabilia valued over a certain amount may include autographs by Nick Maley, who is often present to greet guests and offer photo opportunities. Booking tickets or visits in advance is recommended during peak cruise seasons to ensure availability. The museum offers discounts for children and groups as part of its community outreach.
Interesting facts
- •Nick Maley is sometimes called "That Yoda Guy" due to his work on Yoda in Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back.
- •The museum contains movie memorabilia spanning almost nine decades of film history.
- •Nick Maley was nominated for an Emmy Award for his makeup work on the 1982 film The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
- •The museum operates as a non-profit foundation encouraging children to follow their dreams through art and creativity.
- •Nick Maley rebuilt a replica Yoda in 2016 using the same principles as the original puppet.
- •The exhibit is a recommended stop on 15 cruise lines and is described as the most unique enterprise in the Caribbean.
History
Nick Maley, originally from London, began his career in special effects make-up early in life, influenced by his father's acting and backstage experiences.
He worked on numerous films, including the original Star Wars trilogy, where he helped create Yoda's head, hands, and feet, and contributed to creature designs for iconic scenes.
After relocating to Sint Maarten in 2007 with his wife Gloria, he established the Planet Paradise exhibit, later renamed the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit.
The museum expanded in 2015/16 to include a wider array of memorabilia and production relics.
In 2016, Maley was honored by Lucasfilm and rebuilt a replica Yoda using original techniques, further cementing his legacy in cinematic history.
Place Guide
Main Exhibit Area
Features original movie memorabilia and creature effects from films including Star Wars, Superman, Alien, and The Terminator, showcasing Nick Maley's career highlights.
Yoda Replica2016
A meticulously rebuilt replica of Yoda created by Nick Maley in 2016 using the original techniques from The Empire Strikes Back.
Museum Shop
Offers a selection of celebrity-signed production-used items and Caribbean artwork by Nick Maley, with opportunities for autographs and photo dedications.
Contact
Phone: (721) 553-2545