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Here’s 9 fun facts about JAWS that you might not have known about – to get you in the mood ahead of our 50th Anniversary Screening at VideOdyssey.
Steven Spielberg was just 27 when he directed JAWS. The horror-classic debut came from the then-young film-maker — no small feat.
The mechanical shark – nicknamed “Bruce” after the director’s lawyer – was so troublesome the crew joked they were making “Flaws.” Frequent breakdowns meant the shark appeared far less than intended… which actually made the movie far scarier.
The iconic “dun-dun … dun-dun” theme by John Williams almost didn’t make it in. When he first played it, the director thought it was a joke – soon he realised it was pure cinematic terror.
Filming was meant to wrap in 55 days – but it ended up taking 159, thanks to bad weather, technical issues and an exploding budget.
The original 1975 US release date was 20 June 1975. But, due to the 6 month gap in releases back in those days – here in the UK, JAWS didn’t reach cinemas until 26 December 1975 – yes, Boxing Day!
The most famous quote, which is considered one of the greatest movie lines ever… “You’re gonna need a bigger boat” – was never scripted. It was improvised by actor Roy Scheider.
Shooting on open water – for the first time ever in a major film – made production a nightmare: drifting boats, lost equipment, unpredictable seas… real-life danger added to the tension.
JAWS didn’t just scare beachgoers – it invented the “summer blockbuster.” It shattered box-office records and changed how films were released and marketed forever.
Don’t Miss Our 50th Anniversary Screening This Saturday
Join us on Saturday 29th November for a special JAWS 50th Anniversary Celebration at VideOdyssey, Toxteth TV, Liverpool.
Expect live art, shark-themed memorabilia, a fan quiz, a LEGO JAWS display.
Grab your tickets here: 50th anniversary celebration
VideOdyssey, Toxteth TV, 37–45 Windsor Street, Liverpool, L8 1XE
🎟️ £8 / £6 concessions (L8 residents, students, unwaged)
Brought to you by Purple Revolver & Liverpool Noise