In 1975, Steven Spielberg’s Jaws transformed the Hollywood landscape, sparked a cultural phenomenon and took a huge bite out of the collective psyche, with the public always wondering what lurked just beneath the surface of the water. The first true summer blockbuster was a masterpiece of the thriller genre, following the terrifying ordeal of a beach community under attack by a monstrous great white shark. This LIFE special issue celebrates the 45th anniversary of this iconic film (which earned an Oscar nomination for Best Picture) with an in-depth look at Spielberg's revolutionary filmmaking and storytelling techniques, the chaotic making of the movie and its lasting legacy, and why, 45 years later, it’s still scary.
Title Page
Masthead
A Monster Success • In the summer of 1975, Steven Spielberg’s Jaws revolutionized the film industry and terrified audiences with the harrowing tale of a malevolent man-eating shark
From Page to Screen • Peter Benchley’s best-selling novel tapped into a visceral fear of sharks and inspired one of the most popular films of all time
Behind the Scenes of a Blockbuster
Roy Scheider • The two-time Oscar nominee landed his most famous role as beleaguered police chief Martin Brody
The Shoot from Hell • Jaws was riddled with behind-the-scenes drama, derived partly from filming on the ocean with temperamental robotic sharks that caused constant delays and headaches for Spielberg and Co.
Richard Dreyfuss • As brash as his Jaws alter ego, the outspoken Academy Award winner has led a colorful life on screen and off
Dun-Dun… Dun-Dun: Scoring the Shark
Robert Shaw • The bold Brit faced off against James Bond, con artists, and one extremely formidable great white shark
A Legacy of Fear • Thanks to Jaws, sharks earned a reputation as calculated killers—leading to their demonization and brutal mass slaughter
Photo Credits
Terror on the Water
