The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack

The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack

Share this post

The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack
The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack
Jaws at 50: From Adventure Story to Horror Story

Jaws at 50: From Adventure Story to Horror Story

How my response to Steven Spielberg’s killer shark classic evolved between childhood and adulthood

Simon Dillon's avatar
Simon Dillon
Jun 10, 2025
∙ Paid
1

Share this post

The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack
The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack
Jaws at 50: From Adventure Story to Horror Story
2
Share
“You’re gonna need a bigger boat…” Credit: Universal

Warning: Contains spoilers

What else can be said about Steven Spielberg’s classic 1975 adaptation of Peter Benchley’s bestseller? Unless you’ve been living under a rock for five decades, you’ve not only seen Jaws countless times, but you’ll also be familiar with the notoriously difficult production history. You’ll know how it became a smash hit and, along with Star Wars (1977), essentially began Hollywood’s depressing dependence on huge summer blockbusters. Even if you’re one of the few who have never seen it, you’ve doubtless heard lines like “You’re gonna need a bigger boat”. John Williams’s shark theme, arguably the most famous two notes in cinema history, will immediately suggest aquatic menace to your ears. Why? Sheer cultural osmosis. As an influential landmark in cinema, Jaws is inescapable.

In celebrating the 50th anniversary, it can be tempting to regurgitate what everyone already knows about the film that launched Spielberg into the cinematic stratosphere. Instead, I’m taking a slightly more personal approach. What does Jaws mean to me, and why, as an adult, do I view it as a horror film rather than an adventure film?

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to The Dillon Empire: Simon Dillon on Substack to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 Simon Dillon
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share