Jaws

Definition

In the context of film and television, 'jaws' refers to the suspenseful and thrilling nature of storytelling, often illustrated through techniques that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. This term is especially associated with the iconic film 'Jaws' directed by Steven Spielberg, which revolutionized how tension is built in cinematic narratives. The film utilized innovative directing methods that highlighted fear, suspense, and the fear of the unknown, shaping the future of the thriller genre and the role of the director in crafting compelling visual stories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Jaws' was released in 1975 and is often credited with creating the modern summer blockbuster phenomenon, forever changing how films are marketed and distributed.
2. The film's score, composed by John Williams, features an iconic two-note motif that effectively builds suspense and signals the shark's presence.
3. 'Jaws' was one of the first films to utilize extensive testing with audiences to gauge reactions, leading to adjustments that enhanced its overall impact.
4. The innovative use of camera angles and underwater shots helped to create a sense of impending danger and disorientation for viewers.
5. The massive success of 'Jaws' influenced future filmmakers to prioritize spectacle and tension, solidifying the director's role as a key architect of emotional engagement in storytelling.

Review Questions

• How did 'Jaws' redefine suspense in filmmaking and influence future directors?
  • 'Jaws' redefined suspense in filmmaking by effectively utilizing sound, editing, and visual storytelling to build tension and engage audiences. The film's innovative approach to showing less of the shark while amplifying fear created a psychological impact that influenced future directors to explore similar techniques. By demonstrating that what is not seen can be more frightening than what is shown, 'Jaws' set new standards for suspenseful storytelling in cinema.
• Discuss the significance of audience testing in the success of 'Jaws' and its implications for the director's role.
  • Audience testing played a crucial role in shaping 'Jaws,' as it provided valuable insights into viewer reactions that could be used to enhance the film's effectiveness. This practice allowed the director to make informed decisions about pacing, tension-building moments, and character development. As a result, it emphasized the director's role not just as a creative visionary but also as someone who must consider audience engagement and emotional responses when crafting a narrative.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of 'Jaws' on modern filmmaking practices and the evolution of the director's responsibilities in creating thrillers.
  • 'Jaws' had a lasting impact on modern filmmaking practices by establishing new benchmarks for creating thrillers that prioritize audience engagement through suspense. The film's commercial success demonstrated that well-executed tension could draw massive audiences, influencing how studios approached filmmaking. Consequently, directors became more involved in marketing strategies and audience research, making them key figures not only in artistic vision but also in understanding market dynamics and audience preferences.

Related terms

Suspense: A feeling of excitement or anxious uncertainty about what may happen next in a narrative.

Blockbuster: A highly successful film that attracts a large audience and generates significant box office revenue.

Cinematic Techniques: Methods used in filmmaking to create a specific effect or convey a particular message, such as camera angles, lighting, and sound design.