50 years of Jaws

A major exhibition by the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures has been launched to commemorate the film Jaws. This unforgettable movie hit cinema screens half a century ago.

Based on the thriller written by Peter Benchley, it describes how three characters go on the hunt for a great white shark which is attacking swimmers at a tourist resort. It was only the second full-length film by Steven Spielberg, then just 27, in the role of director.

The exhibition leads visitors through the film, revisiting the various scenes. Interactive exhibits allow attendees to put themselves into moments of the action.

The event also looks into the long-term effect of the film, which Spielberg had feared might end his career.

"I thought my career was virtually over halfway through production on Jaws. Because everybody's - was saying to me, 'You are never going to get hired again! This film is, is, is way over budget and way over schedule.'"

In fact, rather than the end, Jaws was a key turning point in movie history, being the first film to attract over $100 million in revenue at the US box office. After a number of rereleases, this figure has increased to more than $477 million worldwide, making it officially the first major blockbuster movie.

Many of the exhibits on display have been contributed by the film's passionate enthusiasts, as the curator, Jenny He, explains.

"And we have over 200 original objects related to the production of Jaws. It really was a cinematic treasure hunt to find original objects used - not only original objects used on Jaws, but also concept illustrations and production notes. Anything that would put the story of Jaws together for our visitors in a tangible, physical way."

And predictably, the centrepiece of the entire exhibition is Bruce, the shark. This is the only remaining mechanical model of the creature that has terrified sea-goers ever since. View Less