Released in 1975, Steven Spielberg’s Jaws became the first true summer blockbuster, a cultural phenomenon, and a film that changed cinema history. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, Jaws continues to thrill audiences, influence filmmakers, and inspire collectors around the world. With the anniversary comes renewed interest in shark-themed memorabilia—ranging from a 50th anniversary edition of the classic The Game of Jaws, Steelbook, T-Shirts, figures, and even a Build-a-Bear Happy Hugs Teddy Bear Jaws 50th Anniversary Gift Set.
Jaws was based on the 1974 novel by Peter Benchley, a former journalist whose story of a man-eating great white shark terrorising a small New England town gripped readers. Benchley’s book itself was a bestseller, though its release also drew criticism from marine conservationists who feared it would demonise sharks. The film, which Benchley helped adapt for the screen, magnified both the popularity and the controversy.
Universal Pictures released Jaws in the USA on June 20, 1975, and in the UK on December 26, 1975. The film’s troubled production is legendary. Spielberg, then just 27, battled weather, mechanical failures (the famously unreliable shark model, nicknamed “Bruce”), and tight budgets. Yet these challenges led to creative decisions—most famously, limiting the shark’s screen time—which ultimately heightened the suspense and terror.
When Jaws finally hit cinemas, it smashed records and redefined movie marketing. It was the first film to be released widely across the USA on hundreds of screens simultaneously, supported by a massive television advertising campaign—techniques that are now standard. Audiences queued around the block, with the film earning over $470 million worldwide—a staggering sum for its time.
The controversy surrounding the film’s portrayal of sharks soon followed. Marine biologists and conservationists have long argued that Jaws contributed to widespread fear and misunderstanding of sharks, which persists even today. Benchley himself later regretted the portrayal, becoming an advocate for shark conservation in his later years.
Yet despite the debate, the cultural impact of Jaws remains undeniable. The menacing John Williams score, the simple image of a shark’s fin cutting through water, and the iconic poster by Roger Kastel—featuring a great white shark rising beneath an unsuspecting swimmer—are seared into pop culture memory.
As the 50th anniversary is marked, collectors are diving deep for Jaws memorabilia. The original 1975 US and UK theatrical posters are among the most coveted film posters of all time. Rare 1970s board games, action figures, and lobby cards command premium prices on the collector’s market. Modern merchandise—ranging from Funko Pop! figures to LEGO sets—has kept the shark fandom alive for new generations.
Jaws has also inspired an entire subculture of fans, with annual screenings, fan conventions, and anniversary events. The town of Martha’s Vineyard, where much of the film was shot, has become a pilgrimage site for die-hard fans, with shops selling official Jaws merchandise and tours highlighting iconic filming locations.
Fifty years after it first terrified beachgoers, Jaws still looms large over cinema history and popular culture. For collectors, the anniversary is a perfect time to rediscover shark memorabilia—and perhaps hunt down that elusive vintage poster or toy. Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, Jaws is back to capture imaginations once again.
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