Jaws (1975)
Spielberg makes a generation afraid of the beach.
Presentation:
If there was ever a reason to be afraid of sharks, this is it. I’d even go as far as to say Spielberg has probably saved lives by making vacationers more paranoid of the waters. This film marks the beginning of Spielberg’s blockbuster era when he dominated cinema with back to back hits. John William’s soundtrack to this film is so iconic that it is likely the defining sound association of sharks for the rest of time. The visuals are very indicative for its time with surprisingly interesting framing and camera techniques including a notable dolly zoom scene. It feels like it could be based off a Stephen King novel, though it is actually Peter Benchley’s. The story can definitely be enjoyed today, but the practical fake shark probably won’t be realistically menacing by today’s standards.
Conclusion:
A pretty awesome horror film for 1975 that still has a good enough story to be acceptable today. Just don’t expect to be immersed in the waters if you are watching it for the first time.
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