How 'Jaws' Changed the World

Synopsis

"How 'Jaws' Changed the World" is a 2012 documentary directed by Jim Beller that takes an in-depth look at the lasting impact of Steven Spielberg's iconic 1975 thriller "Jaws". The film explores how "Jaws" revolutionized the film industry by pioneering the summer blockbuster model and altering audience expectations for suspense and storytelling in cinema. Beyond its entertainment value, the documentary also examines how the movie influenced public perception and awareness of sharks, shaping environmental and conservation conversations worldwide. Combining interviews with filmmakers, scientists, and historians, the documentary provides a comprehensive analysis of both the cultural and ecological ramifications stemming from the movie's release.

Cast

• Jim Beller

  Himself

• Wendy Benchley

  Herself

• George Burgess

  Himself

• Rodney Fox

  Himself

• J.V. Martin

  Narrator

• Mark Marks

  Himself

Reviews

Critically, "How 'Jaws' Changed the World" has been received positively, earning a solid 7.6/10 rating on IMDb, which reflects favorable audience and critic impressions. Reviewers appreciate the documentary's insightful approach in connecting entertainment with environmental issues, with many highlighting its thoughtful mix of archival footage and expert commentary. For instance, some critics praise the way the film acknowledges "Jaws" as a groundbreaking cinematic event while also addressing its unintended consequences regarding shark fear and conservation challenges. On Rotten Tomatoes, although the documentary itself does not have a Tomatometer score, audience reviews suggest a generally warm reception, emphasizing how it offers an engaging and educational experience even for those unfamiliar with ecological debates. However, some viewers point out that at times the documentary can feel slightly uneven in pacing, trying to cover a broad range of topics at once. Metacritic scores are not available, but critical consensus leans toward seeing the film as an important and watchable tribute to the influence of "Jaws" in both film history and environmental discourse.