- Starring
- Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss
- Director
- Seven Spielberg
- Rating
- PG
- Genre
- Drama, Thriller
- Release date
- June 20, 1975
- Where to watch
- Vudu (rent or buy), Amazon Prime (rent or buy)
Overall Score
Rating Overview
Rating Summary
Jaws is a classic film that’s as thrilling now as it was in 1975. The story follows a small island community that is terrorized by a great white shark. The film is directed by Steven Spielberg and stars Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw.
Jaws
The film’s suspenseful score by John Williams is iconic and adds to the tension of the film. The film’s special effects are still impressive, particularly the animatronic shark. The performances by the cast are also noteworthy, with Scheider and Dreyfuss delivering particularly strong performances. Scheider as the chief of police is the protagonist of the story and his character arc is well-crafted, he starts out as a skeptic of the existence of the shark, but as the story progresses, he becomes the leader of the hunt. Dreyfuss as the marine biologist is also a key character, his obsession with the shark is portrayed well and adds depth to the film.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to build suspense and tension. From the opening scene, the audience is on edge, unsure of when the shark will strike next. The film’s pacing is masterful, with the shark attacks becoming more frequent and intense as the film progresses. The film’s climax is well-executed and provides a satisfying resolution to the story.
Jaws also explores themes of man versus nature and the dangers of ignoring warning signs. The town’s mayor, played by Murray Hamilton, is more concerned with keeping the beaches open for the summer season than protecting the safety of the town’s citizens. This adds a layer of social commentary to the film. The film also explores the idea of how the media can sensationalize events and create panic among people.
The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, the wide shots of the ocean, the island, and the boats are beautiful and add to the atmosphere of the film. The film’s editing is also noteworthy, the way the film cuts between the shark, the characters, and their reactions are well-executed and adds to the tension.
Overall, Jaws is a masterful film that still holds up today. It is a suspenseful and thrilling film with great performances, special effects, and a well-crafted story. The film’s themes are still relevant today, making it a timeless classic. It’s a must-watch for any film lover and is a cinematic masterpiece that set the standard for the modern blockbuster. The film’s impact on the industry is undeniable and it’s a testament to the film’s enduring legacy.
James Carrick
James Carrick is a passionate film enthusiast with a degree in theater and philosophy. James approaches dramatic criticism from a philosophic foundation grounded in aesthetics and ethics, offering insight and analysis that reveals layers of cinematic narrative with a touch of irreverence and a dash of snark.
One comment
Shaaaally
May 5, 2024 at 6:58 am
Review score is spot on, you can’t quote give it 100/100 like Shawshank due to a couple of minor flaws in the film but daaaaamn jaws is just as good today!