Who doesn’t love Jaws? This 1975 Spielberg masterpiece is more than just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon that forever changed how we view the ocean—and thrillers. Known for its suspenseful storytelling, eerie music, and iconic shark, Jaws remains a classic. But did you know this legendary film is swimming with behind-the-scenes bloopers, little-known facts, and even a deleted scene that could rival the terror of the shark itself? Let’s dive into some fascinating details that even die-hard fans might not know.
“You’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat”: The Line That Almost Got Missed
Few movie lines are as iconic as Chief Brody’s “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.” But did you know this unforgettable moment almost didn’t land? When Jaws was first test-screened, the audience was so startled by the shark’s sudden appearance that they screamed right over Roy Scheider’s delivery.
To ensure audiences didn’t miss it, Steven Spielberg extended the scene and raised Scheider’s voice in post-production. And here’s a fun fact: the line wasn’t in the script. Roy Scheider ad-libbed it on set, making it one of the most memorable impromptu moments in film history.
John Williams’ Haunting Two-Note Score
Can you even imagine Jaws without its iconic dun-dun… dun-dun theme? Surprisingly, when composer John Williams first played the score for Steven Spielberg, the director laughed, thinking it was a joke. “That’s funny, John,” Spielberg said, “but what’s the real theme?”
Little did he know, that simple two-note tune would become synonymous with suspense and terror, earning Williams an Oscar and launching his legendary career. Spielberg later admitted that Williams’ score was responsible for at least half the movie’s success.
Spielberg Was Rooting for the Shark
While Jaws was based on Peter Benchley’s 1974 novel, Spielberg initially found the human characters so unlikeable that he admitted he was rooting for the shark! Thankfully, Spielberg’s cinematic touch added depth and nuance to the characters, creating a perfect balance between human drama and underwater terror.
The First Screening and Stiff Drinks
When Jaws premiered at a Dallas screening, producers Richard Zanuck and David Brown were nervous. They feared audiences would laugh at the mechanical shark, which had a notorious reputation for malfunctioning during production.
To calm their nerves, they grabbed stiff drinks before entering the theater. Their fears were unfounded. As the screams started and never stopped, the duo realized they had a hit on their hands. By the end of its run, Jaws had grossed a staggering $476.5 million worldwide, becoming the first-ever summer blockbuster.
The USS Indianapolis Speech: A Chilling Collaboration
Quint’s haunting USS Indianapolis monologue is one of Jaws’ most memorable moments. But who wrote it? The speech has been the subject of debate, with contributions from several sources. Playwright Howard Sackler conceived the idea, John Milius expanded it into a 10-page draft, and Robert Shaw (who played Quint) refined it into the chilling version we know today.
Initially, Shaw attempted to deliver the speech while drunk, believing it would add authenticity. The result was unusable. The next day, he performed the monologue flawlessly in one take, cementing his performance as one of the greatest in cinematic history.
Tension on Set: The Feud Between Shaw and Dreyfuss
Behind the scenes, not everything was smooth sailing. Robert Shaw’s struggles with alcohol and Richard Dreyfuss’ youthful arrogance created friction on set. Their off-screen rivalry often mirrored their on-screen tension.
In one infamous incident, Shaw bet Dreyfuss $1,000 to climb the Orca’s mast and jump into the ocean, taunting him mercilessly when he refused. While their clashes were intense, they added an extra layer of authenticity to the dynamic between Quint and Hooper.
Deleted Scene: The Full Horror of Alex Kintner’s Death
One of the most shocking moments in Jaws is the death of young Alex Kintner. Originally, the scene was supposed to show the shark leaping out of the water, grabbing Alex and his raft in its jaws. However, technical issues with the mechanical shark forced Spielberg to scale back the visuals.
Additionally, producers worried that showing the full attack would jeopardize the film’s PG rating. While the full footage was cut, snippets of the deleted scene can be found in the Jaws Blu-ray documentary, leaving fans to imagine just how terrifying it could have been.
Robert Shaw: A Tragic End for a Legendary Actor
Robert Shaw’s portrayal of Quint is unforgettable, but his life was tragically cut short just three years after Jaws was released. The actor died of a heart attack in 1978 at the age of 51. His passing left a void in the film industry, as Shaw’s intensity and charisma were unmatched.
The Alex Kintner Sandwich: A Heartwarming Reunion
Years after Jaws was released, Lee Fierro, who played Alex Kintner’s grieving mother, walked into a seafood restaurant and noticed a menu item called the “Alex Kintner Sandwich.” When she mentioned her role in the film, the restaurant’s owner—none other than Jeffrey Voorhees, the actor who played Alex—came out to greet her. The chance encounter led to a touching reunion decades after they filmed the iconic scene.
Bloopers and Quirks That Make Jaws Even More Endearing
Even a masterpiece like Jaws isn’t immune to bloopers. Here are a few fun ones to look out for during your next rewatch:
- The Yellow Barrels Mystery: At one point, the Orca has three barrels left. Moments later, five barrels magically appear!
- The Shiny Orca: The word “ORCA” on the boat’s stern alternates between rusty and shiny in different shots.
- The Blooming Cherry Tree: The film is set in July, but a cherry tree in full bloom—a spring phenomenon—appears early on.
These small inconsistencies only add to the film’s charm, reminding us that even legends are imperfect.
Jaws: The Legacy Lives On
Nearly 50 years after its release, Jaws remains a timeless masterpiece. Its suspenseful storytelling, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking effects continue to captivate audiences around the world. The film not only defined a genre but also set the standard for summer blockbusters, proving that a great story, a brilliant cast, and a little imagination can create magic.
So, the next time you watch Jaws, keep an eye out for these hidden gems and behind-the-scenes quirks. They’re the perfect reminder of why this iconic thriller has stood the test of time. Just remember: when you hear that dun-dun… dun-dun, stay out of the water.
