The Head of 'Jaws @ 50' Discusses Why It Represents the Peak of the Time-honored Tale
In celebration of Jaws' 50th anniversary, a new documentary titled "Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story" is set to premiere on July 10 on National Geographic, streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu. This highly anticipated production, produced by Laurent Bouzereau, offers a unique and personal perspective on the making and impact of the groundbreaking film.
Steven Spielberg's Jaws, which turned 50 last week, has been the subject of numerous behind-the-scenes films and books, including The Jaws Log by Carl Gottlieb. However, Laurent Bouzereau's documentary distinguishes itself by focusing on the emotional drama and personal experiences of the filmmakers involved, particularly Steven Spielberg. The director candidly shares his post-production panic attack and fears that the film might end his career.
The documentary also delves into how Jaws transcended its initial cultural moment, becoming a generational experience and a movement that launched Spielberg’s career and changed the film industry. It set the template for the modern summer blockbuster and deeply influenced audience perceptions of suspense and storytelling.
In addition to revisiting the "Jaws effect," the wave of shark fear the film caused, Bouzereau’s documentary critically reframes this legacy by highlighting a more nuanced conversation around ocean curiosity and shark conservation. Through featuring ocean advocate Wendy Benchley and new interviews with cast, crew, filmmakers, and shark advocates, it addresses the importance of storytelling in shaping public attitudes toward sharks—not merely as monsters, but as vital, respected apex predators.
The film is enriched with rare and never-before-seen archival footage, including private home videos and outtakes from Spielberg’s and Benchley’s personal archives, deepening its authenticity and intimacy. It also includes reflections from numerous renowned filmmakers influenced by Jaws, further underscoring the film’s enduring impact on cinema and culture.
Richard Dreyfuss, a star of Jaws, is featured in the new documentary through archival interviews. Wendy Benchley, the wife of Jaws author Peter Benchley, recounts her experiences watching the film for the first time with shark experts and cinematographers who worked on the film and related documentaries. Guillermo del Toro is also featured, discussing his relationship with the Jaws monster as a metaphor for his own fears.
John Williams composed the music for the new documentary, adding another layer of nostalgia to this comprehensive tribute to the film’s 50-year legacy. The documentary is included on the Jaws 50th Anniversary Edition available now on 4K, Blu-ray, and digital from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.
Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story is not just a making-of retrospective; it is a heartfelt tribute to a film that has left an indelible mark on cinema and popular culture. It is a must-watch for any fan of the original film and a valuable addition to the ongoing conversation about shark conservation and the power of storytelling.
The documentary, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, provides a unique look at the personal experiences of the filmmakers involved in the creation of the groundbreaking film Jaws, including Steven Spielberg's post-production panic attack and fears for his career. Moreover, the documentary delves into the impact of Jaws on the film industry, as it set the template for the modern summer blockbuster and influenced audience perceptions of suspense and storytelling. Lastly, the film addresses the importance of storytelling in shaping public attitudes towards sharks, showcasing their essential role as apex predators in the ocean.
