June 20 Jaws (1975)

Milestone Years

• 50th Anniversary: June 20, 2025
• 60th Anniversary: June 20, 2035
• 75th Anniversary: June 20, 2050
• 100th Anniversary: June 20, 2075

Inspiration Behind the Movie

“Jaws” was inspired by Peter Benchley’s 1974 novel of the same name, which itself drew from real shark attack incidents in 1916 along the New Jersey shore. Spielberg aimed to create a suspense-filled thriller that played on primal fears, using minimal shark visuals to heighten tension, especially after mechanical issues during production.

You Might Not Know

• The mechanical shark, nicknamed “Bruce,” frequently malfunctioned, leading Spielberg to suggest the shark less, increasing suspense.
• The iconic score by John Williams uses just two notes to create one of the most recognizable themes in film history.
• “Jaws” was the first film to earn more than $100 million at the box office, helping invent the modern summer blockbuster.
• Steven Spielberg was only 27 years old when he directed the film, a major risk that paid off monumentally.
• The movie changed beach culture, with reports of declining beach attendance after its release due to shark fear.

Food Ideas

• Shark-shaped sugar cookies with red icing “bites.”
• New England clam chowder or lobster rolls for that Amity Island vibe.
• Fish and chips as a nod to the ocean theme.
• Blue ocean punch with gummy sharks swimming inside.
• Beachside BBQ with grilled seafood skewers.

Ways to Celebrate

• Host an outdoor screening with beach chairs and towels.
• Create a shark trivia game to test your knowledge.
• Set up a beach-themed photo booth with fins and floaties.
• Watch the film with surround sound for maximum thrills.
• Read Peter Benchley’s novel before or after viewing.

Filming Locations

Jaws was filmed primarily on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, which stood in for the fictional Amity Island. The location was chosen for its quaint New England charm and shallow waters that helped with filming the mechanical shark. Today, fans can visit various filming spots, including the town of Edgartown and South Beach.