Behind the Scenes of Jaws 1975 Iconic On Set Photos & Stories
Explore rare behind the scenes photos and stories from the making of Jaws 1975 mechanical sharks Steven Spielbergs challenges iconic cast moments and the films 50th anniversary legacy .
Production Troubles and Oceanic Filming
Principal photography for Jaws began on May 2 1974 on Marthas Vineyard Massachusetts . The location was selected for its shallow sandy seabed and open ocean realism . Unlike studio shoots in controlled tanks director Steven Spielberg faced unpredictable tides rough conditions and frequent technical malfunctions . Central to these difficulties was the mechanical shark nicknamed Bruce which often failed due to saltwater corrosion . Operated by a team of 14 technicians Bruce required constant repair delaying the production schedule dramatically .
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Visual Innovation Born of Necessity
The persistent failure of the mechanical shark forced Spielberg to adapt. Inspired by Hitchcock he chose to imply the sharks presence rather than show it explicitly . This tension building approach not only worked dramatically but became the films signature . Cinematographer Bill Butler developed special waterproof camera housings and handheld techniques to stabilize shots aboard the Orca in turbulent seas . The result was a gritty immersive style that heightened suspense especially in iconic scenes like the zoom on Brodys shocked expression and the slow building beach sequences .
Iconic BTS Photos
Behind the scenes images reveal Spielberg directing at sea the cast between takes and the dangerous stunt work involved such as Susan Backlinies grueling underwater opening scene filmed over three days using cables to simulate a shark attack . Other photos highlight the collaboration between Roy Scheider Richard Dreyfuss and Robert Shaw during intense water bound sequences along with the complex rigging behind the mechanical shark .
Crew Challenges and Legacy
Editor Verna Fields and screenwriter Carl Gottlieb played key roles in salvaging scenes and injecting humor into the film . The shoot stretched to 159 days nearly triple the original schedule. Spielberg later admitted the experience caused him overwhelming stress akin to a heart attack .
50th Anniversary Recognition
In honor of its 50th anniversary Jaws The Exhibition at the Academy Museum is showcasing over 200 props including the only surviving full scale Bruce model offering fans a deeper look into the making of this cinematic milestone .