The 1975 blockbuster film “Jaws” directed by Steven Spielberg became a pivotal moment in cinematic history, defining the concept of a “summer blockbuster.” Its massive success granted Spielberg artistic freedom to choose his future projects.
Despite its monumental achievement, Spielberg opted out of continuing with the Jaws franchise, which eventually expanded to four movies. While none of the sequels quite matched the original, each offers something for fans. Here’s a breakdown of how to watch them:
- Jaws (1975): This adaptation of Peter Benchley’s novel encountered numerous challenges during production but emerged as a box office sensation. It’s a well-paced film, packed with suspense and shocks, and it solidified Roy Scheider’s stardom. Currently available for streaming on Netflix.
- Jaws 2 (1978): The sequel faced its own set of difficulties, with changes in directors and clashes on set. Despite mixed reviews, it earned significant box office returns. Currently available for streaming on Netflix.
- Jaws 3-D (1983): The third installment marked a downturn in quality, lacking returning actors from the earlier films. The plot, involving a shark in an amusement park, faced criticism for its implausibility and subpar production values. Nevertheless, it managed moderate box office success. Available for streaming on Netflix.
- Jaws: The Revenge (1987): With a storyline disregarding the events of the previous film, this entry brought back Lorraine Gary and introduced Michael Caine. Despite a ludicrous plot and familiar production issues, it struggled at the box office. Michael Caine humorously remarked on its negative reception, highlighting the financial reward it brought him. Currently available for streaming on Netflix.
While the Jaws sequels may not have matched the original’s acclaim, they offer a glimpse into the evolution of the franchise and its impact on popular culture. All four movies are available for streaming on Netflix for those interested in exploring the series beyond the iconic first film.