Steven Spielberg reflects on the challenging production of “Jaws” in the upcoming documentary “Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story.” Speaking candidly, Spielberg reveals that he frequently sought advice and comfort from his late mother, Leah Adler, during the making of the iconic film. Despite being a seasoned filmmaker by then, he describes moments on set as overwhelming, saying, “I talked to my mom a lot,” emphasizing that he often reached out for her guidance.
The production of “Jaws,” released in 1975, was fraught with obstacles, which Spielberg addresses in detail. While he felt a strong determination to complete the film and “never once felt like I wanted to quit,” he admitted to fears about being dismissed from the project. He recalls a pivotal moment when Sid Sheinberg, then head of the studio, visited to assess the ongoing challenges, prompting Spielberg to affirm his commitment to finishing the film.
Support during this tough time also came from fellow director Martin Scorsese, who would travel to the set to offer encouragement. Spielberg humorously recounts that they would share concerns about the production, reinforcing the camaraderie that exists among filmmakers. Conversely, he also recalls discouraging comments from others in the industry, including an actor who warned that the difficulties could jeopardize his future in Hollywood.
Now, five decades later, Spielberg reflects on the creation of “Jaws” as a transformative experience, stating, “To me, Jaws was a life-altering experience.” He recognizes the mixture of trauma and resilience that shaped the project, hoping that those involved carry forward the experience as a proud testament to their perseverance.
“Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story” premieres on July 10 on National Geographic and will be available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu the following day. This documentary not only sheds light on the making of a cinematic classic but also serves as a reminder of the collaboration, challenges, and inspiration that define the filmmaking process.
The human aspect of filmmaking—support, both personal and professional—shines through Spielberg’s revelations, offering an uplifting perspective on overcoming adversity.