It’s No Mistake That JAWS Still Holds Up as a Horror Movie
When it comes to horror movies, suspense is number one. The same goes for shark movies, and JAWS for years has been one of the most suspenseful films there is. Shark movies come and go, but this IS the shark movie. Every shark film to come out instantly gets compared to JAWS, and for a good reason.
Can you remember the last time that two simple notes invoked such a feeling of fear and dread for what is coming? We can’t either, and TheRagingNerd.com wanted to take a little time to dive into why we think this film still holds up as the best shark and horror films of all time.
So why has this classic stood the test of time with a market so over-saturated with content? For starters, most horror films aren’t really all that good. But even if you’re not a horror film nerd, you’ve probably still seen JAWS. Especially if you great up in the ’90s and went to the beach with your family! The way that director Steven Spielberg builds the tension every time the camera goes underwater still sends chills up our spines every time we watch it. Whether there will be an attack or not, the way he moves the camera chooses the shots, all invoking absolute terror in the audience. Simply, he’s a master at this.
Now, back to the two notes thing. John Williams score is one of the most genuinely dynamic and iconic composers in film history. Two notes to bring complete terror to any viewer, repeatedly repeated, building to the moment of attack. Are you kidding?! Impending doom in two notes, brilliant.
You’d think about how often the mechanical shark malfunctioned while filming, which led to the production going over budget and schedule for months. Yet Spielberg still managed to get the shots he needed to keep this metal shark alive and eating on screen.
But to have something last so long in audiences’ minds the world over, it needs to have that pop culture feel to it. This is one of the biggest reasons we believe JAWS has held up as long as it has. Of course, there are the scares, the famous way Spielberg likes to give you just enough on-screen to let your imagination run wild, and the tension to make this a great horror film.
Pop culture rules all, and JAWS has been referenced in everything from Back to The Future II, the iconic poster, or even JAWS t-shirts that you see your friends wearing. Merchandising is everything, and JAWS graphic tees, hoodies, posters, and more keep this film and all the nostalgia that comes along with rocking out in your favorite graphic tees from this Spielberg classic!
Because it’s Spielberg, you already know that the story will hold the test of time. Which JAWS does just that with the story. One where we connect with the characters deeply and hope they survive the wrath of the murderous shark!
The story is everything, and JAWS is the king of all shark movies for these reasons and so many more.
But for now, let’s all go take a dip in the ocean together, shall we?
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