Jaws Movies Ranked: From Masterpiece to Shark Disaster

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Initially, when “Jaws” was first screened, it demonstrated, much like “The Godfather,” that films could surpass their source books. What could have been a typical monster movie transformed into an exceptional suspenseful flick due to its nuanced approach and stellar acting. To this day, “Jaws” stands as one of the most influential examples of how to craft a thriller in cinema. However, one must wonder about the sequels that emerged afterwards. While they veer more towards the ridiculous monster movie genre than cinematic masterpieces, are they as terrible as they’re often portrayed? In essence, all but one of them live up to their negative reputation, though they still pale in comparison to Spielberg’s original groundbreaking work.

The “Jaws” series of movies, which has kept people terrified of sharks even today, includes the original film along with some confusion about the fourth movie. However, it’s worth noting that the third and fourth installments can essentially be considered as one in terms of their quality.

4) Jaws: The Revenge

Is there any possibility of a fifth Jaws film or a remake? Given its status, it’s highly unlikely, much like Back to the Future. However, should there be one, it would almost certainly not follow the telepathic shark plotline introduced in Jaws: The Revenge.

Watching the movie “Jaws: The Revenge” is like enduring a series of peculiar events that have earned it a place on numerous “Worst Movies Ever Made” lists. Throughout the film, there are puzzling plot twists and scenes that seem out of place. However, the most unusual thing about “Jaws: The Revenge” isn’t the fun banana boat scene, or the idea of the shark hunting a specific family line, or Michael Caine’s miraculously dry shirt after boarding a boat, or the shark’s ability to roar. It’s not the shark’s death scene, where it’s impaled by a schooner’s prow and then seemingly explodes. Rather, what makes “Jaws: The Revenge” truly peculiar is that when these unusual moments aren’t happening, the movie is as exciting as watching dishwater without sharks.

3) Jaws 3-D

Jaws: The Revenge frequently appears on “Worst Of” lists, and Jaws 3-D is no exception in terms of quality. One significant issue is the special effects, especially noticeable when the matte line-framed shark approaches a large pane of glass, stops, and the glass suddenly breaks. It’s challenging to envision this movie looking impressive even on the big screen in 1983 with 3D glasses.

In addition, the shark isn’t prominent enough in the movie “Jaws 3-D”. Similar to “The Revenge”, this film can be quite boring. However, it does have some positive aspects such as the presence of Louis Gossett Jr., Lea Thompson, and Bess Armstrong’s acting, along with the character Philip FitzRoyce. The character FitzRoyce, portrayed by Simon MacCorkindale, is charming in his role as an adventurer and shark hunter. His death scene is the only instance where the third film creates any sense of tension build-up. This makes it slightly better than “The Revenge”, which lacks any tension whatsoever.

2) Jaws 2

Throughout his career, Steven Spielberg has occasionally dabbled in horror, notably with movies like “Jurassic Park” and those he produced such as “Gremlins” and “Poltergeist”. However, when it came to revisiting the terrifying, gory world of the “Jaws” series, Spielberg showed no initial interest. Instead, director Jeannot Szwarc was recruited, and reluctant Roy Scheider was also involved due to a contractual agreement.

Roy Scheider might have had reservations about appearing in “Jaws 2”, but he’s undeniably the main factor that makes it the only decent follow-up to the original “Jaws” movie. This underwater horror film shares a strong connection with its predecessor, evident in the choice of Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard as the setting for Amity scenes and the return of Murray Hamilton, Jeffrey Kramer, and Lorraine Gary among the cast. The movie subtly modifies the formula to establish its own identity.

In the movie “Jaws 2”, Brody’s performance is underappreciated yet strong. The discovery of another shark through a developed photograph, the death of a Killer Whale, his dismissal following a mistake with a school of bluefish – all these elements fit together nicely. Although the second shark seems less menacing compared to the first, it still manages to leave a lasting impression through its gruesome demise via a power cable bite. Add to that the shark’s charred face, a nerve-wracking helicopter scene, and especially the water-skiing sequence, and “Jaws 2” stands as solid as any sequel could be to the original masterpiece.

1) Jaws

Among the greatest films ever made, regardless of genre, Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” has impressively maintained its appeal after more than five decades. This movie pioneered the concept of blockbuster summer movies, and it remains a chilling thriller divided into two compelling segments. The initial part is a classic horror narrative involving a shark terrorizing a small island, preying on everyone from children to adults, pets, and even boat instructors. The second half transforms into an exciting adventure story as three men, each with unique backgrounds, join forces to conquer the terrifying creature.

The two parts of the movie are both incredibly engaging, showcasing Spielberg’s remarkable talent even early in his career. It’s astonishing that an inexperienced director could transform such a problematic project into something truly exceptional. In fact, if the mechanical shark had functioned as intended, Jaws might not have been as great. Instead, it stands as a perfect illustration of how sometimes, less can indeed be more.

All four Jaws films are available to rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.

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2025-02-03 03:40