Jaws (1975)
"When a killer shark unleashes chaos on a beach community, it's up to a local sheriff, a marine biologist, and an old seafarer to hunt the beast down."
The first half of Jaws is a perfect example of building suspense the right way. There's wasn't much music, blood and gore was at a minimal, the shark was barely seen, and there was never a certainty of safety. With the tension built up, the 4th of July sequence was the perfect turning point of the film and segwayed to the trio's grand adventure at sea in the 2nd half.
When Brody, Quint, and Hooper set off to to hunt the shark, the real movie begins. This half of the film was so good. Much tension was built as the shark teased the guys, while also teasing the audience as to when the shark will meet its end. Right before the climax, there was a calm before the storm where the trio had a nice bonding moment together that was very heartfelt. Then the final battle came and went in a glorious fashion, leaving the audience satisfied as the credits rolled.
Thanks to the Star Wars Prequels, a great debate of CGI vs Practical has become a common argument amongst film buffs. The Shark from Jaws is a great point for the argument for Practical Effects, as the shark looked amazing. Some close ups made it look fake, but for the most part, the realism they were able to capture in appearance and movement was revolutionary. I don't know how realistic the shark's death was, but I honestly feel so satisfied seeing the shark defeated in an epic explosion of blood. A classic moment in film history, if you ask me.
The legacy of this film is undeniable. Not just with movie special effects. Jaws helped spark decades of Shark research and knowledge. Shark week is an annual event and scientists are still learning more year after year about these ocean predators. And of course John Williams presented us with yet another iconic theme. Cultured peoples pretending to be a shark while swimming in a pool most likely paddle creepily along humming the theme to indicate their temporary shark persona.
My Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆