Behind the Scenes of 'Jaws': The Making of a Cinematic Milestone
The National Geographic documentary "Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story" delves into the challenges faced by director Steven Spielberg during the making of the iconic film "Jaws." Spielberg reflects on the psychological toll of leading the production at a young age and the struggles encountered during filming.
The film went over budget and extended far beyond its original schedule due to various issues. The mechanical sharks were not ready for the prologue scenes, leading Spielberg to realize the power of suspense in not revealing the threat early on. Technical problems with the sharks designed for freshwater caused delays, adding to the stress on set.
Shooting on water presented its own set of challenges, with incidents like the boat sinking and actors Robert Shaw and Richard Dreyfuss clashing on set. Despite the difficulties, Spielberg remained determined to capture the shots he needed for the film's success.
After wrapping up filming, Spielberg experienced panic attacks and nightmares related to the intense production process. The success of "Jaws" as a box office hit did not alleviate his trauma, as he continued to struggle with the memories of directing the film for years.
The documentary also features insights from industry professionals like James Cameron and Steven Soderbergh, highlighting the enduring impact of "Jaws" on filmmaking. "Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story" premieres on National Geographic, offering a comprehensive look at the making of this cinematic milestone.