Just when you thought it was safe to get back in the water…Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster movie, “Jaws,” is turning 50. National Geographic just announced “JAWS @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story,” a 90-minute authorized documentary on the making of this iconic film. The company has also released the first poster, trailer, and given it a July 10th premiere date.
“JAWS @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story,” is directed by Laurent Bouzereau (“Music by John Williams”) and is made with Spielberg’s full participation and blessing. The filmmakers’ own Amblin Documentaries is producing with Bouzereau’s Nedland Films, Laura Bowling, and the late “Jaws” author Peter Benchley’s wife Wendy Benchley. Making this the most authoritative documentary on the film to date.
Nat Geo’s film includes newly recorded reflections from Spielberg. The director goes in depth about how notoriously difficult it was to film “Jaws.” Between a constantly malfunctioning shark, to horrible weather, he admits he had PTSD post-production. This new footage is blended with never-before-seen footage from Spielberg’s and Benchley’s personal archives. This private footage includes rare outtakes and home videos.
“Jaws” Impact @ 50
What is a documentary about an iconic film if its influence isn’t discussed? Nothing, that’s what! “Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story” has exclusive interviews with J.J. Abrams, Emily Blunt, James Cameron, Cameron Crowe, George Lucas, Greg Nicotero, Jordan Peele, Steven Soderbergh, Guillermo del Toro, Robert Zemeckis, and many more. Along with original crew members John Williams (composer), Joe Alves (production designer), and Carl Gottlieb (screenwriter and Meadows). And original cast members Ellen Brody (Lorraine Gary), Hendricks (Jeffrey Kramer), Cassidy (Jonathan Filley), and Alex Kintner (Jeffrey Voorhees). Quint, played by the late Robert Shaw, is also represented through interviews with the actor’s son Ian Shaw.
Benchley’s family are featured as well alongside prominent shark experts. Filling out “Jaws” impact before, during, and after the film adaptation. Including the highly debated “Jaws effect” which led to an increase in fear of sharks after the film’s release. This is believed to have led to these animals being killed at higher rates due to paranoia.
Leading marine scientists Philippe Cousteau, Candace Fields, Austin Gallagher, Gibbs Kuguru, Dr. John Mandelman of the New England Aquarium, Dr. Greg Skomal of the Save Our Seas Foundation, and National Geographic Explorer Brian Skerry, all weigh in. Looking at not only the negative impacts of the film, but the conservation it inspired.
“JAWS @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story,” premieres July 10th on National Geographic. Before hitting Disney+ and Hulu on July 11th. You can check out the first trailer below:
