When it was released in the summer of 1975, Steven Spielberg’s killer shark masterpiece “Jaws” became an instant hit that kick-started the blockbuster era of American mainstream cinema. The movement was solidified with the release of “Star Wars” two years later, but “Jaws” was the spark that ignited the big budget spectacle era, which we’re still in the middle of forty years later, for better (“Guardians of the Galaxy”) or worse (The “Transformers” franchise).
In order to celebrate the film’s 40th anniversary, editor and Vimeo user Robert Jones put together an exciting and visceral video tribute to Amity Island, Brody, Quint, Hooper, and Bruce the Shark, that also works as a fast-paced and engaging 3-minute trailer that focuses mostly on the thrills and the action. Relying heavily on John Williams’ haunting and perfectly escalating score, Jones manages to construct a high-tension narrative that fits the hyperbolic sensibilities of modern blockbuster trailers.
And just like any other modern blockbuster trailer, it gives away pretty much the entire story; so if you’re one of the three people who still haven’t seen “Jaws,” proceed with caution. In this writer’s opinion, “Jaws” actually shines the most during its quiet moments. The infamous USS Indianapolis monologue is arguably its best scene, so perhaps a counter tribute that focuses on the more understated scenes could be interesting.