This film is about a fishin' trip.

Rating: 10/10 (29 May 2019)

A classic for all ages. Jaws was the first summer blockbuster and it laid the foundation for what they're known for today. It's got a fantastic character-driven plot with plenty of motivations, mixed feelings and inner reflection that liken ourselves to empathize with the main character, Sheriff Brody(Roy Scheider). Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) is also an outstanding character that doesn't stick to the one-note educated stereotype that Quint (Robert Shaw) believes he is. The first half builds up this by introducing the basis of the character, but in the boat, all three characters are presented as complex. The show, don't tell rule is used in an effective way with meaningful dialogue when Brody asks Quint what one of his scars are. Quint's reluctance to mention it demonstrated that it wasn't for bragging about nor was it appropriate to bring it up in a light-hearted setting.
I always enjoy a good Chekov's gun moment.
The multiple genres Spielberg implements is great in the sense that it paces very well. He knew how to build tension in a master class of not giving it all away too early. Even when he did show the shark, we never really get the full grasp of the size of it until Brody drops the iconic line "You're going to need a bigger boat." This highlights how special the cinematography really is. The practical effects of the shark were also done well. It might not hold up to today's standards, but it does so well when it's not scrutinized.
This film wouldn't be complete without its amazing score. John Williams demonstrated an ability to deliver iconic themes over and over again but there's nothing that compares to the minor 2nd repetition that Jaws' is so well known for. Even if you've never seen the film, you know the theme. He also helps out greatly in improving the timelessness of the film because the "classical" style is almost as timeless. The plot elements are universal and Quint's squabble with Hooper is old vs. new and learning to mix a bit of both.
It's truly a wonderful summer film to watch even though the stereotype of sharks are greatly misguided by this film. It's one of my all-time favorites and will remain a staple in this household forever.