In Celebration Of The Original Summer Blockbuster ("Jaws" Review)

 On June 20th 1975, audiences were treated to the cinematic adaptation of Peter Benchley's 1974's page turner "Jaws." As is the legend, a young Steven Spielberg (who only had a handful of films on his filmography) had a torturous time getting the mechanical shark to obey his directions. A troubled production that went over budget, he had thought that he would never make another film again. But the film was released to great acclaim and box office dollars and, as they say, the rest is history.

This film celebrates 50 years. It's only one year older than I am. I grew up with not only this film but it's rather silly sequels. I have fantastic memories of the Universal Studios tram tour and the Jaws theme park 'ride' where you pass by the waters as Jaws jumps out at you. It's quite thrilling to experience in person. Sadly my baby brother was frightened by this mechanical beast. (It's okay, he's old enough to laugh now)

As a guy born one year after its theatrical release I had seen the films either on home video or cable television. They were all wonderful seeing at home. But I wanted to see this film on the big screen as was the case in the summer of '75. And the opportunity to see it in modern day 3D? Let's go.

The 4K UHD restoration is glorious and the 3D is how modern 3D is meant to be. The third "Jaws" film was released in 3D, but it was in 1983 and the amazing 3D technology that we have today didn't exist. This was the old school, hokey, blue and red lenses 3D. And the film did the gimmicky things that old school 3D did. Now don't get me wrong...there's a lot of charm to those old school 3D movies. They're a lot of fun. But going to see this re-release of the original Jaws, the 3D is there to completely immerse you in the film. The original film wasn't meant to do those old 3D gimmicks. It's telling a fully fleshed out story and the 3D adds to you just immersing yourself in the movie and forgetting your cares for a couple of hours. 

This classic Spielberg popcorn thriller is worthy of this 4K UHD restoration. It's the spark that began a legendary run of a legendary film director. 

The great thing about classic films is that they usually will make their rounds in movie theaters eventually. If you missed this 50 year anniversary re-release, I'm sure you will be able to catch it again. Maybe next year. If not, this magnificent restoration can be purchased on digital and physical discs. It should be in your collection if you're a movie fan. It's still amazing after 50 years and will most definitely stand the test of time.