Steven Spielberg, the mastermind behind iconic films like E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, and Indiana Jones, created a cinematic sensation with Jaws. As the first summer blockbuster, Jaws not only redefined genre boundaries but also set new box office records, amassing over $476 million worldwide. However, amidst this monumental success, a particular on-set photo would lead Spielberg to make a solemn vow—one that would influence his approach to filmmaking henceforth.
The photo in question features Spielberg sitting atop the mechanical shark used in Jaws. Captured during the tumultuous shoot, this image was not a candid moment but a staged one, orchestrated by the set photographer. Reflecting on this, Spielberg confessed to Entertainment Weekly,
“That’s a staged, fake picture. Meaning there was no reason to sit on the shark except the photographer said, ‘Get on the shark.’ I remember that very well. I would never do that today.”
This experience taught him the importance of authenticity, prompting him to avoid staged photographs on set, aiming to preserve the genuine essence of his filmmaking process.
Navigating Behind-the-Scenes Challenges
While Jaws catapulted Spielberg to new heights of fame, the journey was fraught with challenges that nearly cost him his career. Prior to Jaws, Spielberg had directed mostly TV films and The Sugarland Express. The production of Jaws was plagued by constant delays and budget overruns, primarily due to the mechanical sharks and unpredictable weather conditions. The decision to shoot on the ocean, a choice Spielberg insisted on to achieve realism, only compounded these issues.
Spielberg revealed that during these trying times, he was on the verge of being fired by Universal Pictures. However, his mentor, Sid Sheinberg, the CEO of Universal Studios, shielded him from these threats. Spielberg shared,
“Sid Sheinberg always blocked it. [Producers] Dick Zanuck and David Brown always told me that the other shoe was about to drop… And I didn’t have anything to do, because I couldn’t cut the script.” His steadfast commitment to his vision, despite the looming possibility of a shutdown, ultimately delivered a film that became a cornerstone of cinema.
Legacy and Lessons Learned
Despite the adversities, Jaws remains a testament to Spielberg’s innovative direction and resilience. The film not only survived the hurdles of production but also thrived, setting a new standard for blockbuster movies. It stands as a powerful reminder of the tumultuous yet rewarding nature of creative endeavors in Hollywood.
Spielberg’s experience with Jaws illustrates the complexities behind the scenes of creating a blockbuster. From battling natural elements to dealing with studio pressures and learning from unexpected challenges like staged photographs, Spielberg’s journey with Jaws is a compelling story of artistic integrity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Through films like Jaws, Spielberg continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike, proving that the most challenging projects can often lead to the most enduring legacies.