50 Reasons Why ‘Jaws’ Is Still Great 50 Years Later

by

On June 19, 1975, Hollywood held a rather dismissive view of summer, much like it had for years: Viewing it as the season where lesser films met their end. The studios would typically save their finest productions for unveiling during autumn and winter festivities. It was widely believed that moviegoers, at least in substantial numbers, preferred to stay away from cinemas once the weather warmed up. As an ardent film enthusiast, I can’t help but wonder if these assumptions were truly valid.

On June 20, 1975, Jaws opened in hundreds of theaters around the country — and everything changed.

Under the guidance of the up-and-coming director Steven Spielberg, Jaws quickly turned into a massive box office success. In just a few weeks, it had become a significant cultural influence. Within months, it held the title of the highest-grossing film ever made. Adjusted for inflation, it still ranks as the seventh-highest-grossing movie in history.

In no time at all, Hollywood saw the potential in movies similar to Jaws. These were high-concept films (often adapted from top-selling novels), released nationwide during summer seasons with hefty marketing budgets behind them. Two years later, Star Wars was unveiled, outperforming even the success of Jaws, and setting that pattern as the new industry norm.

Comprehending the lasting influence of Jaws is straightforward; even after 50 years, we continue to inhabit a world shaped by it. However, understanding why it had such a profound impact can be challenging. In his book The Jaws Log, one of the film’s co-writers, Carl Gottlieb, admitted that he wished he could uncover “the secret recipe for crafting an enduring (or ironic) masterpiece.” The creation process remains elusive and beyond comprehension.

Should the author of that movie find it challenging to express its appeal, I’d undoubtedly face similar difficulties. However, I can certainly share my affection for the iconic film, Jaws, and why I believe it holds not just influence, but a profound and enduring impact. Given that this year marks the 50th anniversary of its release, allow me to present 50 reasons that underscore its greatness – though I could have easily enumerated many more. If I’m fortunate enough to be around for Jaws‘s centennial celebration, I promise to share another 50 reasons then!

50 Reasons Why ‘Jaws’ Is Still Great 50 Years Later

1. John Williams’ Incredible Music

As a movie enthusiast, one of the primary reasons why the classic film Jaws remains iconic in our collective memory is undoubtedly due to the groundbreaking score by the legendary John Williams. In his own words (most recently shared in the Music By John Williams documentary on Disney+), Steven Spielberg, the director of the film, was a huge admirer of traditional symphonic film scores, and during the mid-1970s, John Williams was one of the select few composers who still crafted those grand, old-fashioned symphonies. This is why Spielberg, a fan of Williams’, asked him to compose the music for The Sugarland Express and then Jaws.

When Williams proposed his idea for the Jaws score — a haunting repetition of two ominous notes — Spielberg initially thought it was a joke. However, Williams defended his concept and explained why he believed the music would perfectly match the film. Eventually, Spielberg was convinced, and now he believes that a significant portion of Jaws‘s enormous success can be attributed to John Williams’ unforgettable duhhhh-duh.

2. The PG Rating

The Unexpected PG Rating of ‘Jaws’ and Its Lasting Impact on a Generation of Movie-Goers

To this day, the classic film ‘Jaws’ maintains its PG rating by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). At the time when it was released, there was no PG-13 rating available, which is one reason for this surprising classification. If it were rated today, it would likely receive a PG-13 or even an R due to its vivid depictions of shark attacks, including decapitated heads, severed limbs, and copious amounts of blood gushing from beneath the ocean’s surface.

The PG rating for ‘Jaws’ is more than just surprising; it holds significance. This rating allowed the movie to be aired on television with minimal editing, not only on premium cable channels but also on general broadcast networks. As a result, young viewers like myself, who were around ten years old at the time, were able to watch ‘Jaws’ during a Friday night airing on WPIX 11 in New Jersey. Despite our parents’ strict policies regarding R-rated films, anything shown on TV was considered acceptable. So, I watched ‘Jaws’ at an age that was too young — an experience I never forgot, and I believe many others of my generation can relate to. In essence, a whole generation of budding film enthusiasts were introduced to the power of cinema through ‘Jaws,’ forever shaping their perspectives on movies.

3. One of the Greatest Movie Posters Ever

The success of “Jaws” wasn’t due to any single aspect of its production or release; instead, it was a result of a hundred strategic choices, such as the iconic poster design. This poster, depicting a shark rising from the depths to attack an unaware swimmer, was painted by artist Roger Kastel. Interestingly, this artwork was initially used for the cover of Peter Benchley’s “Jaws” book, which it helped push up the bestseller list. Universal Pictures found it so effective that they only made a few adjustments to use it as their movie poster, and it proved just as impactful in that context.

4. It Has An Amazing Trailer, Too

When it comes to promotional materials for the film “Jaws”, the poster typically garners the most attention, but its trailer is equally impressive. The trailer opens with a chilling voiceover by Percy Rodriguez, setting the tone over underwater footage: “There’s a creature alive today that has survived millions of years. It doesn’t need reason or emotion. It simply exists to kill and consume. It will attack and devour anything it comes across. It’s as if God created the devil… and gave him… jaws.” I’m hooked!

5. The Opening Sequence

In both the poster and trailer, they heavily reference the opening scene of ‘Jaws’, where a young woman named Chrissie (played by Susan Backlinie) goes for a swim at night and is attacked by an unknown creature from the depths (spoiler: it’s a shark). Even after 50 years, this sequence continues to be incredibly impactful; it’s both tragic and terrifying, effectively setting the stage for the film’s powerful and largely unseen antagonist.

6. Alcohol Saves a Man’s Life

In a chilling scene at Amity Island’s coastline, Chrissie tragically perishes in the sea due to her date’s excessive drinking. This incident serves a dual purpose: firstly, it introduces a thread of dark humor that persists throughout “Jaws,” as the stumbling drunk’s survival is solely attributed to his intoxication. Secondly, this event subtly previews the film’s recurring theme of alcohol, which many characters consume excessively, even the main heroes. This scene hints at the boozy atmosphere that pervades this holiday destination.

7. The Unseen Menace

As a devoted cinephile, I can’t help but marvel at how Orson Welles’ assertion that art thrives under constraints rings so true when we look at the cinematic masterpiece that is “Jaws.” The legendary mechanical shark, refusing to cooperate, presented Steven Spielberg with an insurmountable challenge. Months were spent wrestling with the recalcitrant robot great white, only managing a few usable frames of footage.

In the face of adversity, Spielberg demonstrated remarkable ingenuity by keeping the shark largely out of sight. He employed clever point-of-view shots and John Williams’ ominous score to suggest the shark’s presence, allowing viewers to conjure the fearsome beast in their own minds. An audience’s imagination, after all, is always more terrifying than any special effect a filmmaker could create.

This decision, born out of necessity, proved to be a stroke of genius. By treating Jaws as an unseen terror, Spielberg allowed viewers to construct the threat in their minds, making it even more chilling. Moreover, the lack of subpar practical effects has contributed to the film’s timeless quality. Even the most convincing mechanical shark of 1975 would have looked dated by today’s standards. The fact that we rarely see the shark only serves to make “Jaws” seem even more enduring, to the point where it’s possible that if the shark had functioned as intended, “Jaws” might not be remembered with such reverence today.

8. “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.”

One of the most iconic phrases in cinematic history comes from the movie “Jaws,” penned by Peter Benchley and Carl Gottlieb. Roy Scheider delivers this line with incredible intensity, but what makes it truly unforgettable is Verna Fields’ expert editing. She skillfully synchronizes the shark’s appearance, Scheider’s sudden jump, and then the slow reveal of the famous punchline: “You’re going to need a bigger boat.

9. It Has Some of the Best Modern Posters of Any Film

Although some may believe that the Roger Kastel poster is unmatched, numerous artists have still endeavored to surpass it. Notably, films have sparked an abundance of contemporary posters from niche labels like Mondo. Some of these are exquisite, while others are exceptionally intelligent. My preferred one among them is this masterpiece by Laurent Durieux.

10. Everyone Looks So Ordinary

50 years ago, the film “Jaws” is recognized as having pioneered the concept of the modern blockbuster, although it bears little resemblance to its contemporary counterparts today. The movie features minimal special effects and spends the first half with characters discussing their emotions and motivations rather than engaging in immediate action sequences on open water. Despite this, the suspense builds steadily throughout, interspersed with dialogues about personal desires, needs, and fears. Unlike today’s superhero-centric blockbusters, the characters in “Jaws” are ordinary people, complete with scruffy beards, thick glasses, and soiled clothing, making their adventure all the more captivating and relatable.

11. It Turned Steven Spielberg Into “Steven Spielberg”

– It’s important to note that Jaws wasn’t Steven Spielberg’s first directorial venture in features. He had already been a director in films and television for over five years beforehand. However, it was this film that catapulted him into Hollywood stardom and paved the way for his following projects such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Raiders of the Lost Ark, which further cemented his place among the elite directors in the industry. If Jaws had failed, or if Spielberg requested John Williams to remove the distinctive music, or if the shark didn’t work as well as it did and the film lost its unique charm, we might have seen a different trajectory for his career after that point.

12. The Mechanical Shark Was Named Bruce

The malfunctioning robotic shark, which was never able to function properly, was humorously called Bruce – presumably named after Steven Spielberg’s attorney. It’s safe to say that this amusing moniker suits an ominous on-screen beast quite well.

13. The Shark Attacks Mentioned in the Film Are Real

Through the passage of time, certain marine biologists have argued that the movie “Jaws” has contributed to a negative public perception towards sharks, and I believe there is some validity to this claim. However, one intriguing aspect of “Jaws”, despite its sensationalized portrayal of shark attacks, lies in the fact that the historical attacks referenced by the characters are accurate. For instance, conversations between Brody and Hooper revolve around a 1916 attack at the Jersey shore. This event was not fabricated for the sake of the screenplay; four people were indeed killed by sharks on New Jersey beaches during that summer. Such details add an extra layer of terror to the film.

14. The Name “Quint”

In the classic film “Jaws,” it’s the tiny elements that truly elevate its greatness. For instance, did you know that Quint’s name is derived from the Latin word for ‘fifth?’ This is significant because Quint becomes the fifth victim to fall prey to the shark, following Chrissie Watkins, Alex Kintner, and Ben Gardner (whose head was found in his boat), as well as Michael’s sailing instructor.

15. The Tiny Body Count

Regarding Quint being the fifth victim in the movie “Jaws”, while it may seem like a constant barrage of shark attacks and carnage throughout the film, this is not actually the case. (This is why it received a PG rating.) Despite this, director Steven Spielberg excels at making each attack have maximum impact.

16. The Shark P.O.V Shots

In the movie “Jaws”, it’s not just about what’s visible on screen. It’s also about what remains hidden and the characters who are doing the observing. The camera angles often reflect the shark’s view, a decision largely made due to practical reasons to minimize the screen time of Bruce (the actor). However, these point-of-view shots have a profound, almost unconscious effect on viewers. They immerse the audience into the perspective of the character they are supposed to identify with. In this instance, that character is a shark preying on unsuspecting people. This subtle and eerie sense of being a voyeur adds an extra layer of intrigue to the film.

17. It’s Not Just the Shark Kept Off-Screen

In Spielberg’s film, his controlled method of depicting shark attacks isn’t limited only to scenes on the beach. He employs a similar visual technique during the autopsy of Bruce’s victim, where instead of revealing the gory details, he keeps the body completely out of the frame and lets Hooper describe an endless list of gruesome injuries. This allows the audience to fill in the blanks and imagine the horror themselves, which can often be more terrifying than any image Spielberg might have shown us.

18. “Wanna Get Drunk and Fool Around?”

One of the charming, intimate instances found in the movie “Jaws” occurs during a peaceful scene between Roy Scheider and Lorraine Gary as their children frolic on the beach. She playfully proposes, “Fancy getting a bit tipsy and spending some time together?” To which he responds affirmatively, “Absolutely!” It’s worth noting that such a casual, flirtatious exchange would likely be absent from today’s high-profile blockbuster movies.

19. John Williams’ Score Is Sometimes a Clue to What Will Happen

Recognize John Williams’ score and it sets your heart pounding – the shark is ready to strike! Spielberg skillfully manipulates this anticipation throughout the movie in amusing ways. For instance, there’s a scene where you won’t hear Williams’ score because, surprisingly, the shark isn’t even around – instead, it’s just some kids acting as if they are the shark. If you keep an ear out for the music, you might catch on to this trick before the Amity police do!

20. Beware Pruny Fingers

In the darkly humorous universe of “Jaws”, consider the scene where little Alex Kitner meets his demise. Before his fatal moment, he requests more time in the water from his mother. She checks his fingers for pruniness and grants him an additional 10 minutes in the ocean. Sadly, poor Alex doesn’t make it past five minutes.

In essence, in the unsettling perspective of “Jaws”, whenever our mothers warned us about getting out of the water because we were becoming too pruny, they were right all along. The shark advises, with a chilling glint in its lifeless black doll’s eye, that if you stay in the water once your fingers are pruny, you will perish.

21. The Dolly Zoom

Alex Kitner’s demise inspires one of the most iconic shots ever captured in cinema, where the camera rapidly zooms in on Roy Scheider’s face while the background appears to distort. This effect is created by simultaneously pulling back the lens and moving the physical camera forward, a technique known as a “dolly zoom.” However, due to its strong connection with this movie, many people refer to it simply as “The Jaws Shot.

22. The Moving Pier Scene

In “Jaws,” there are numerous remarkable scenes that sometimes get overshadowed by the more well-known sequences. While discussions often revolve around the iconic yellow barrels, many forget about the scene where an inexperienced fishing crew attempts to catch the shark. During this sequence, the shark nearly consumes one of them while dragging half a pier behind him. One of the men frantically tries to climb the broken end of the pier as the rest floats towards him, hinting that the shark is getting closer and closer. In this instance, the fisherman narrowly escapes, but luck was not on the side of many other residents of Amity.

23. The Killer Shark Arcade Game

A delightful detail includes the opening scene showcasing Amity beaches teeming with activity, where a man engages in an old-school arcade game titled “Killer Shark.” At first glance, it seems reminiscent of a witty jab from the movie ‘Jaws,’ but surprisingly, this game was genuinely produced by Sega during the early era of video gaming. In a technical sense, it’s not a video game; it is an “electro-mechanical hunting game.”

Or simply:

The scene opens with a bustle at Amity beaches as someone plays the vintage arcade game, “Killer Shark.” Although it appears to be a clever reference from ‘Jaws,’ this game was actually created by Sega during the early days of video games. Technically speaking, it’s not a video game; it is an “electro-mechanical hunting game.

24. Mrs. Kintner’s Speech

If “Jaws” were simply an exceptional thriller from the ’70s, it would still be noteworthy. However, what sets it apart as a timeless masterpiece is its skillful amalgamation of horror, comedy, suspense, and terror with genuine emotion – and nowhere is this more evident than in the scene where Mrs. Kintner, the mother of the boy whose fingers were bitten by Jaws, confronts Chief Brody, slaps him, and scolds him for keeping the beaches open despite a girl being eaten by a shark just a few days earlier. (It’s true that Brody opened the beaches under pressure from the mayor.) This scene powerfully underscores the tragic aspects of this story that can sometimes be thrilling (and even funny) at other times.

25. “Give Us a Kiss”

In a touching addition to the movie, following Mrs. Kintner’s chilling speech, Brody spends the evening at home with his own son. The boy playfully imitates Brody’s tired movements, and their interaction ends with Brody asking for a kiss. His son inquires why, to which Brody responds, “Because I need it.” This heartfelt scene was not originally scripted; instead, it evolved from Spielberg observing Roy Scheider playfully interacting with Jay Mello, the actor portraying his on-screen son, and deciding to incorporate their spontaneous exchange into the film.

26. Brody’s Glass of Wine

As I stand at Brody’s house with a bottle of wine in hand, offered by Hooper, I find myself, in an uncharacteristic move, pouring my drink directly into my water glass – filling it to the brim as Hooper watches and tries to intervene, but to no avail. Let me tell you, the man’s had a tough day. He was scolded and reprimanded by a grieving widow! I’m just grateful he didn’t end up drinking from the bottle himself.

27. When In Doubt, Shoot in the Pool

In “Jaws,” the instant when Ben Gardner’s decapitated head emerges from a hole in his boat is one of its most effective jump scares. However, this impact was heightened due to Steven Spielberg’s decision to re-film this scene at Verna Fields’ swimming pool, as he felt the initial take wasn’t frightening enough. To create an eerie underwater atmosphere reminiscent of the Atlantic, the team added milk to Fields’ pool, a surprising yet effective trick on a modest budget.

28. “Cage Goes in the Water…”

Standing alongside Brody and Hooper as we prepare the Orca for our shark pursuit, I can’t help but notice Quint giving a shady glance to a cage Hooper is hauling aboard. In his old-timey fisherman’s way, he casually remarks, “Cage goes in the water… you go in the water… shark’s in the water… our shark.” Without uttering another word, his skepticism is palpable, so instead, he launches into a mocking rendition of the sea shanty “Spanish Ladies.” This moment in Jaws, devoid of shark attacks, showcases the intricate dynamics between the characters.

29. Its Unique Structure

In almost every screenwriting guide, it is suggested that writers adhere to a three-act structure: setup, confrontation, and resolution. However, the iconic film “Jaws” distinguishes itself from its many copies by employing an unconventional two-act structure. The initial half primarily focuses on events occurring on land, where Brody investigates shark attacks and subsequently enlists Hooper and Quint. The second part commences with a chilling shot of the Orca being observed through the jaws of a shark trophy in Quint’s cabin. The remainder of the film unfolds within the confined and tense environment of the Orca, where conflict, confrontation, and resolution are presented in a unique manner compared to typical Hollywood films.

30. Say Goodbye to Amity

In another daring move by Spielberg, once “Jaws” departs from Amity, it never reappears. There are no scenes showing Lorraine Gary worrying at home, nor shots of anxious swimmers on the beach. Even though the shark appears to be lurking near the island’s shallow waters, when Brody, Hooper, and Quint embark on their journey, land becomes barely perceptible in the distance. This gives their struggle a nearly mythical feel. The story culminates in this solitary battle between man and beast.

31. Richard Dreyfuss’ Plastic Cup Crush

Despite the tense battle between the Orca and the shark in “Jaws“, the film maintains a touch of humor. At first, Quint and Hooper are suspicious of each other, but this is clear in their early scenes together, such as the one with the shark cage and “Spanish Ladies.” After leaving Amity, Quint drinks beer from a can and crushes it. Then, Hooper smashes his plastic cup to match him.

32. Foreshadowing the Shark’s Demise

Immediately following the main characters’ departure aboard the Orca for an expedition, Brody comes close to causing a catastrophe by knocking over several compressed air tanks. Hooper cautions him, “Mess with these tanks, and they’ll explode!” Indeed, this is how Brody ultimately manages to destroy the shark during the dramatic finale. In an unfortunate turn of events, Bruce (the shark) accidentally triggers a mishap when one tank becomes lodged in his mouth. True to Hooper’s warning, the tanks do detonate (after Brody fires at it).

33. Speaking of Foreshadowing…

In the movie, not only do the compressed air tanks foreshadow events, but Quint also prophesies his own demise right from the start. He makes this prediction in his very first dialogue, interrupting an Amity meeting about the shark emergency. In his speech, he forewarns, “I’ll catch this shark for you, but it won’t be easy. This is not like catching bluegills and tommycods. This shark will swallow you whole.” And as Quint had warned, when Jaws starts to sink the Orca, there’s a struggle, a bit of weakening, and then he’s swallowed by the shark’s toothy maw.

34. The Barrels

In the latter half of Jaws, instead of pursuing a real shark, the Orca crew chases a group of yellow floatation barrels that are attached to ropes and harpoons, which the shark carries through the Atlantic. These barrels were intended to slow down or even stop the shark by bringing it to the surface, but no matter how many times they were jabbed into the mechanical shark named Bruce, it kept swimming relentlessly. In the movie, these barrels serve multiple purposes. They ensure that Jaws remains engaged in the action despite the malfunctioning mechanical shark. From a visual standpoint, they are easily distinguishable against the gray and blue backdrop of the ocean. As they accumulate, they also emphasize the immense size and power of the shark without showing it extensively.

35. The U.S.S. Indianapolis Speech

In a moment of calm during the shark hunting expedition, the Orca crew relax with some rounds of drinks, which helps Quint open up about his intense dislike for sharks. As he becomes more relaxed due to alcohol, Quint recounts the tragic event that sparked his fear – he was part of the crew on the USS Indianapolis, a real Navy cruiser that was torpedoed during World War II. The survivors had to battle dehydration, starvation, and sharks that patrolled the waters around the sunken ship, attacking and consuming them. The speech delivered by Quint, written by Shaw and performed beautifully by him, is chilling and adds significantly to the terror of sharks, as Spielberg skillfully creates a sense of fear without showing any actual shark violence onscreen. The exact origins of this speech have been disputed among those involved in its creation, including Howard Sackler, who wrote an early draft of the script, John Milius, who fleshed out Sackler’s initial version, and Shaw himself, a prolific writer who worked on novels, plays, and screenplays.

36. Scheider’s Legit Scar

In the scene involving the Indianapolis speech, there’s an impactful moment when Quint and Hooper exchange stories about their sea battles, leaving Brody, who fears the ocean deeply, to reveal his own scar. This authentic detail in the fictional narrative is actually Roy Scheider’s real scar from an appendix surgery, not a prop added for dramatic effect.

37. When Great Shark Footage Contradicted the Script, They Rewrote the Script

In Peter Benchley’s novel “Jaws,” Brody is the sole survivor, while Hooper is the first to perish. This occurs when Hooper ventures into a shark cage underwater and the shark demolishes the cage, tearing Hooper into pieces. The initial plan for the movie was similar, but the team tasked with capturing footage of a real shark attacking a shark cage returned with unexpected results. Instead of attacking as planned, the shark became entangled in the cage’s cables and proceeded to violently thrash about, destroying the cage. The stunt double for Hooper managed to swim to safety as the scene unfolded differently than scripted. Despite this unplanned turn of events, the captivating footage (particularly valuable given the mechanical shark often looked damaged in the movie) was so impressive that it led to a rewrite of the ending. In the revised version, the shark destroyed the cage, Hooper managed to escape and hide underwater, only resurfacing after Brody had defeated their aquatic foe.

38. Quint’s Death Was Improved In Rewrites

In the story, Quint meets his grisly end when he becomes entangled in a rope connected to the shark, causing him to be pulled underwater by the beast and drowned. However, this demise was deemed insufficiently impactful for Spielberg’s vision. Instead, Quint is devoured by the shark named Bruce, who jumps onto the Orca’s back. This death scene, filled with blood and intensity, stands as one of the most shocking and memorable in any film rated PG. Shaw fights valiantly but ultimately succumbs, his lifeless body dragged into the ocean by the enormous fish. Truly a bleak and indelible image for those who watched this movie as children.

39. “Smile you son of a b—!”

In the realm of hard-boiled dialogue, the line delivered by Jaws’ character, “Smile, you half-wit!”, certainly holds a prominent place. While it’s undeniably catchy, it doesn’t stray so far from reality that one would question its feasibility in a life-or-death struggle with a shark. In this instance, the character needed the shark to open its mouth wide enough for him to access the compressed air tank lodged within its jaws.

40. The Footage of Spielberg Not Getting Nominated For an Oscar

In theaters, Jaws created an immediate buzz; before long, it became the highest-earning film in its medium, catapulting Steven Spielberg into Hollywood’s top directorial ranks almost overnight. Unlike today’s blockbusters, Jaws was quite a force to reckon with at the 1975 Academy Awards, receiving four nominations and winning three Oscars: one for John Williams’ score, one for Verna Field’s editing, and one for sound. However, Spielberg himself was overlooked for Best Director, which left him visibly upset. This displeasure was evident when he expressed his disappointment on camera as the Oscar nominations were announced live, exclaiming “Aw, I didn’t get it!” He felt he had been beaten out by Fellini.

Fortunately, things worked out for Spielberg; he was nominated for Best Director for his next film (Close Encounters of the Third Kind) and many more since then, eventually winning Oscars for directing Schindler’s List and Saving Private Ryan. In the world of awards, where everyone claims to admire their competitors, it’s refreshing to see someone as frustrated as Spielberg was upon not receiving a nomination for Jaws. Wouldn’t you be just as frustrated if you directed Jaws and were then overlooked?

41. The Jaws Log

Apart from being hailed as one of the most remarkable films produced by Hollywood, “Jaws” is also the topic of an exceptional behind-the-scenes book: “The Jaws Log,” penned by screenwriter and actor Carl Gottlieb. During the film’s production, Gottlieb significantly revised the script and played a minor character named Meadows on camera. Given his multiple roles, he was privy to much of the making of “Jaws,” from its inception to its near-disastrous production. With humor and wisdom, Gottlieb chronicles this experience in “The Jaws Log.” This book should be a staple on any film enthusiast’s bookshelf, regardless of whether they are fans of “Jaws” or not.

42. The Game of Jaws

Although the merchandising for the movie Jaws was not extensive compared to today’s standards, Universal and its partners did create a few iconic Jaws items, one of which is “The Game of Jaws.” This game, reminiscent of Operation, requires players to remove various objects from a plastic shark’s mouth using a small hook. If a player makes a mistake, the shark’s jaws (a little chuckle) snap shut. The game’s absurdity and rarity, especially in good condition with all its pieces intact, have made it a sought-after collectible among Jaws enthusiasts. To celebrate Jaws’ 50th anniversary, NECA has introduced a new version of the game, featuring a more accurate replica of Bruce the Shark and screen-accurate junk items such as a compressed air tank.

43. It Inspired Some Great Jaws Rides

Without delay, Universal Studios swiftly cashed in on the success of their blockbuster film “Jaws” in 1976. They incorporated the movie set into their Universal Studios Hollywood tram tour, where tourists would pass by a replica of Amity sets (although the original shooting took place in Massachusetts, not California). Along the way, they’d encounter an animatronic shark named Bruce. Initially, the attraction even showcased the actual boat used in the film, the Orca, which was moored nearby. However, over time, it began to decay and had to be removed.

In 1990, a more extensive “Jaws” ride served as one of the key attractions at Universal Studios Florida. This attraction offered several shark attacks as visitors navigated through Amity on boats, much like a blend of the Jungle Cruise and a horror movie experience. Unfortunately, Universal closed Florida’s “Jaws” in 2012 to make space for a new Harry Potter land. However, die-hard “Jaws” fans can still catch a glimpse of it at Universal Studios Japan.

44. The Mayor From Jaws Is Still the Mayor in Jaws 2

In the sequel, “Jaws 2”, the bungling mayor of Amity, played by Murray Hamilton, remains in office despite his questionable decisions causing numerous swimmer deaths. This long-lasting tenure serves as a vivid reminder, reflected often in internet memes, that “local elections matter greatly.

45. “Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water”

As a cinephile reflecting on the cinematic legacy of ‘Jaws 2’, I must admit that it may not have reached the heights of its predecessor in terms of overall quality. However, one aspect where it truly shines is its unforgettable tagline: “Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water…” This phrase, crafted by Andrew J. Kuehn, a trailblazer in the realm of film marketing, resonates so profoundly that it has become synonymous with ‘Jaws’ itself, despite being coined for its sequel. This tagline is such a masterpiece, it stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the most iconic elements from the original movie.

46. Jaws Also Inspired One of the Best Bad Movies Ever

While “Jaws 2” might not reach the heights of cinematic brilliance, it’s a significant improvement over “Jaws: The Revenge.” In just its third installment, the “Jaws” franchise managed to create one of the funniest poorly-made films – a movie so hilariously bad that it essentially ended the series. This is quite ironic considering the sequel’s plot revolves around a shark that has been killed three times by different Brody family members, who are now obsessively pursuing its remaining survivors for an inexplicable sense of revenge. With a nonsensical storyline, poor special effects, and cringe-worthy acting, “Jaws: The Revenge” is like the original “Jaws” from another universe – and it’s quite enjoyable if you’re in the right mood for it.

Kid from Jaws became Martha’s Vineyard police chief

Surprising fact: The very same kid who played a prank on Chief Brody in ‘Jaws’, pretending to be the shark, later held the position of chief of police on Martha’s Vineyard. I can only hope he has the courage to stand firm against the mayor when he insists on keeping the beaches open.

48. Almost 50 Years After First Release, Jaws Made It Back Into the Box Office Charts

Just how great is the movie “Jaws”? Quite remarkably, despite being constantly shown on television, cable, and streaming platforms for years, and available for home viewing in various formats for decades, when it returned to cinemas in the autumn of 2022, it managed to rake in enough revenue at the box office to make it one of the top ten weekend earners.

49. It’s Inspired Multiple Stage Plays

Over the past few years, numerous stage productions have been created about the creation of the movie “Jaws”. A musical titled “Bruce” premiered in Seattle in 2022, inspired by “The Jaws Log” written by Carl Gottlieb. Although I haven’t seen it myself, I did watch “The Shark Is Broken” on Broadway in 2023. This play, which was both comical and deeply affectionate (yet not simplistic), paid tribute to the classic Spielberg film and the late Robert Shaw, as well as his son Ian Shaw who co-wrote and starred in it.

50. A Truly Great Movie Became The #1 Blockbuster Ever

For several decades, the film “Jaws” has been regarded as the pioneer of a monstrous phenomenon within the film industry, either praised or blamed for shaping Hollywood’s preference for large-scale storytelling and box office earnings. While it’s undeniably true that “Jaws”‘ success spawned numerous imitators, revisiting it 50 years later shows it shares little similarity with the blockbusters we recognize today. Most of “Jaws” is focused on intimate interactions rather than epic battles, and a significant portion of the film takes place ashore, delving into the characters’ lives, conflicts, and relationships, before venturing out for the showdown with Bruce – a conflict that, even by today’s standards, remains relatively small and character-centric.

In essence, “Jaws” is an undeniably effective thriller, but it offers much more than just that. If modern blockbusters truly absorbed its teachings, Hollywood as a whole would be in a far healthier state, and moviegoers would find greater satisfaction too.

The 10 Best Movies of the Last 10 Years (2015-2024)

10. The Favourite (2018)

In the indulgent and delightful fashion of a luxurious cake, “The Favourite” stands as an intense power struggle among the influential women who governed England in the early 18th century. The characters are Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz), cunning and manipulative; Abigail (Emma Stone), scheming and ambitious; and Queen Anne (Olivia Colman, delivering a hilarious yet heartrending performance with her portrayal of a depressed monarch suffering from gout). Despite the conventional veneer of a typical Awards Season Costume Drama, “The Favourite” was anything but predictable or generic Oscar bait. It cleverly delved into themes such as sexuality, gender roles, and politics, while also becoming one of the most subtly quotable films of the decade. Though favor can be a fickle wind that changes direction constantly, I have a strong feeling that “The Favourite” will remain one of my favorites for a very long time.

9. The Fabelmans (2022)

The striking aspect of “The Fabelmans” lies in the fact that, even after 70 years since the real-life events depicted in its opening scene, Steven Spielberg still seems to be as enamored with films as young Sammy Fabelman, who becomes captivated by “The Greatest Show on Earth” and subsequently strives to replicate the images he encounters on screen at home. Throughout his career, Spielberg has mastered techniques for using visuals and sound to evoke emotions such as joy, empathy, fear, and understanding in audiences. However, the reason behind this never wavered.

In “The Fabelmans,” the reason is to share his own origin story and shed light on both the beauty and the darkness of movies and life. Cinema serves as a means for Sammy to manage his anxiety and loneliness, but it also pushes him further into isolation at times, both at home and school. His burgeoning passion for directing offers him a way to bond with his artistic mother (portrayed beautifully by Michelle Williams) – yet, it also risks revealing her deepest secrets. And now, years later, it has equipped Spielberg with the skills to narrate this extraordinary tale, which encompasses life, love, joy, and sadness in equal measure. Much like all great films do.

8. Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar (2021)

Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo have returned with their highly-anticipated sequel to “Bridesmaids” in the hilarious film “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar.” In this story, they play best friends who lose their jobs at a furniture store in Small Town, Nebraska. With no other options, they decide to use their severance pay for an extravagant trip to Florida. Here, they become smitten with a handsome stranger (Jamie Dornan) who is actually part of a plot to ruin the town using genetically-modified killer mosquitoes. (Yes, the classic trope.) The duo delivers exceptional performances, humorously discussing topics like Tommy Bahama clothing and the charm of names like Trish. The script’s witty dialogue will be remembered until the day the killer mosquitoes attack us all. In these troubled times, “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar” has arrived like a pair of glittering shorts, shining as a guiding light to lead us out of the darkness.

7. Inside Out (2015)

Prior to assuming the role of Pixar’s chief creative officer, Pete Docter was already considered a brilliant mind within the company. He was the writer for movies such as Toy Story, Toy Story 2, and WALL-E, and directed three of the studio’s most successful films: Monsters, Inc., Up, and Inside Out. The latter is an exceptionally creative story that delves into the inner life of an 11-year-old girl named Riley. When her family moves from Minnesota to San Francisco, Riley experiences turmoil, leading to a struggle between her personified emotions within her mind. The visual design of Riley’s brainscape is continually innovative, offering something intriguing in every frame and scene. Most significantly, Inside Out stands out as one of the most insightful films ever produced, emphasizing the significance of sadness and loss in our lives. It serves as a testament to Docter’s remarkable career up until that point.

6. Nickel Boys (2024)

In this line of work, one seldom encounters a movie that breaks fresh ground and redefines cinematic boundaries. However, every now and then, a film like “Nickel Boys” emerges, offering something unique, daring, and thought-provoking. This is not just an adaptation but a bold interpretation – even boasting dual perspectives, thanks to the innovative decision by co-screenwriter and director RaMell Ross to primarily shoot the movie from the viewpoints of its protagonists. The cinematography, a collaboration between Ross and Jomo Fray, skillfully immerses viewers into the minds and experiences of two young men enduring a Florida reform school in the 1960s. While this point-of-view technique could easily become a gimmick if mishandled, in Ross’ capable hands, it offers a fresh perspective that might just give us a glimpse into the future of cinema. (I still can’t fathom why Jomo Fray wasn’t nominated for a Best Cinematography Oscar.)

5. Past Lives (2023)

In this poignant and emotional drama, we delve into the mysterious bonds that tie and divide individuals throughout their lives – be it destiny, fate, or in-yun. These connections pull people towards each other, yet at the same time push them apart, much like magnets adhering and repelling due to unalterable physical laws. The narrative revolves around a writer named Nora (Greta Lee) and an engineer called Hae Sung (Teo Yoo), who find themselves unable to remain together, yet are inexplicably drawn to one another. Their paths cross multiple times – as children, college students, adults – with the world constantly evolving around them, but their primary relationship persists, despite a third encounter where Nora is married to an American named Arthur (John Magaro). The question lingers: will Nora choose to stay with her husband, or is she destined for Hae Sung? This subtle love triangle’s heart-wrenching resolution will leave you pondering the critical instances and decisions that have molded your own life, even when their significance was not immediately apparent.

4. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Fury Road” stands out as the best car chase movie of the past decade, even the century. Its brilliance is undeniable. However, it’s not just a high-octane action film; it’s also one of the most spiritually profound and allegorical movies of recent years. The story follows a journey reminiscent of the exodus from Sodom and Gomorrah, seeking a new paradise. This journey is led by Charlize Theron’s iconic character, Imperator Furiosa, through a desert guided by a somewhat inarticulate Moses figure, played by Tom Hardy as Max. George Miller’s chaotic masterpiece shows that action movies can be both exhilarating and intelligent. If someone tries to argue otherwise, you should look them straight in the eye and say, “That’s absurd.

3. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

In his late eighties, Martin Scorsese continues to challenge himself and his viewers, eliciting remarkable performances from actors, while delving into recurring themes that have characterized many of his masterpieces: The allure and destructive force of wealth; the shadows and tragedies hidden within American history. This time, the setting is the “Reign of Terror” that claimed the lives of numerous members of the Osage Nation in the 1920s, following their control of oil-rich lands in Oklahoma which made them a target for their white neighbors, including one (Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart) who is married to an Osage oil millionaire (Lily Gladstone’s Mollie). It seems I repeat this with each new Scorsese film, but it could be said that Killers of the Flower Moon more than any other may serve as a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary career, should it be his last.

2. Lady Bird (2017)

Greta Gerwig’s film, “Lady Bird,” is centered around a multitude of contrasts: The protagonist goes by two names. Throughout the movie, she has two romantic interests, two closest friends, and experiences two sets of friendships with her parents. The narrative unfolds over the span of two academic years, each marked by its own school production. There are two formal events, two parties, and two significant relationships with her parents. She considers application to two universities, attends two churches, and navigates through two distinct phases in her life – all these choices make “Lady Bird” a thought-provoking film about decision-making – a time when each choice feels like the most consequential decision one will ever have to make, and in many ways, they are.

1. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)

Rick Dalton and Cliff Booth encounter producer Marvin Schwarz at the historic Musso & Frank Grill. Schwarz proposes that Rick star in Italian Westerns, but Rick, feeling like he’s past his prime, is disheartened. As soon as they step outside, Rick breaks down in tears. In a poignant shot by Quentin Tarantino, the camera sweeps low, revealing the Musso & Frank Grill sign towering over the dejected Rick and Cliff. Embedded under the restaurant’s name is this telling message: “Oldest in Hollywood.” In that moment, Rick seems like he’s lived through the golden era of Hollywood, though he may still have a few good years left. Tarantino’s masterpiece, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, is rich with such clever details.

Read More

2025-06-16 16:03