

The Shark That Ate Hollywood
Aug 27, 2025
Tim Harford, the host of Cautionary Tales, takes a deep dive into the chaotic production of Jaws, detailing its messy yet iconic filmmaking process. He shares insights on the challenges posed by a malfunctioning mechanical shark and the intense pressures faced by director Steven Spielberg and his crew. Delving into creativity under pressure, Harford draws parallels with historical events like Apollo 13, illustrating how setbacks can spark innovation. The discussion reveals Jaws' profound impact on Hollywood, marking a shift in the summer blockbuster landscape.
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Cape Cod Childhood And Jaws Exhibit
- Eric Molinsky remembers summers on Cape Cod and visiting Martha's Vineyard as a child.
- He visited the Martha's Vineyard Museum's Jaws exhibit for the film's 50th anniversary and felt nostalgic.
Museum Props Reveal Movie Scale
- At the museum Eric saw props like the mayor's jacket and a replica mechanical shark head.
- He was surprised by the shark's unrealistically huge size and kitschy memorabilia.
Jaws Invented The Summer Blockbuster
- Jaws didn’t just succeed; it created the summer blockbuster model that reshaped Hollywood.
- The film made Spielberg a household name after a chaotic production.