Jaws at 50: Richard Dreyfuss's Untold Story and the Legacy of a Blockbuster

2025-06-21 00:00:21.479

Richard Dreyfuss, the Oscar-winning actor who played Matt Hooper in Steven Spielberg's 1975 blockbuster Jaws, reveals his memories of filming the movie, which he initially turned down. The production was plagued by mechanical shark malfunctions, leading Spielberg to rely on suspense rather than explicit visuals. Dreyfuss recounts his relationship with Robert Shaw, dispelling rumors of a feud. The article also details the film's impact: its invention of the summer blockbuster, its unintended consequences for shark populations, and its surprising contribution to marine conservation, a legacy actively pursued by author Peter Benchley and his wife Wendy. Lorraine Gary, who played Ellen Brody, shares her experiences and perspective, contrasting with Dreyfuss's aversion to water since the film. The article explores the lasting cultural impact of Jaws, from its marketing strategies to its continued influence on cinema and marine science.