Jaws Production Questions

JAWS

 

1. Where did the idea for Jaws originate? How did it become a film? Who contributed to the screenplay?

The idea of Jaws came from Peter Benchley, the author of the novel. The story was based on a story he read about a fisherman being attacked by a shark. Steven Spielberg, the director, showed interest in the novel and successfully converted it into a screenplay; which was made by Peter Benchley, Steven Speilberg & Carl Gottieb.

 

2. Why were particular scenes removed from the film?

Certain scenes are removed from Jaws because the novel contained to much information for the film to remain exciting. There were also some scenes cut back due to budget cuts, scenes displaying to much violence and difficulty shooting.

 

3. During the pre-production stage what sort of footage did the producers commission in preparation for the film? How was the script changed as a result of this footage?

The producers commissioned to have real sharks be filmed in Australia for Jaws.

The script had to be slightly changed however, as it was found they were unable to film a shark attacking a viewing cage - while having an actor inside.

 

4. What was involved during the casting process? How did they decide on the cast?

During the casting process it was discovered that the main star of the film was the shark. The film makers decided on not hiring well known movie stars, and found new talent instead. Roy Scheider was casted as Martin Brody. He expressed his interest in this film at a party Speilberg attended.

 

5. What is location scouting? Why did Steven Spielberg choose the locations for the film?

Location scouting is when people look for locations to shoot the film. After location scouting for Jaws, they decided on filming at Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts because they wanted a location near the ocean.

 

6. Describe how actors contributed to the production of Jaws.

The actors contributed to the production of Jaws by interpreting the characters from the screenplay and providing advice and there own little touch. One major contribution made by an actor was Roy Shieders line "were gonna need a bigger boat!".

 

7. What does an editor do? Who was the editor on Jaws and what was her responsibility?

It is the editors responsibility to assemble all raw material into a finished product that matches the directors vision. The editor on jaws was Burn Fields. She was responsible for cutting and editing film gave to her, and then turning it into a finished product.

8. What does a composer do? What considerations were taken into account when writing the music for Jaws? What did the music represent?

The composer creates music for films. John Williams wrote the music for Jaws.

The main theme was made up of a high key and low key. Which made up the classic "da da" sound whenever a shark was going to appear or attack.
9. What are test screening and why are they important? What did Spielberg do as a result of them?

A test screening is when a version of the film is shown to people to see what their opinion of the film is. Speilberg first screening was held in a shopping centre. The test screening was successful. Speilberg however, added another scene to the film, to scare people. It was the scene that involved a floating corpse appearing. He needed the timing perfect.

10. What is a director of photography? How was the director of photography involved in the production of Jaws?

The Director of Photography supervises all aspects when making a movie. The D.O.P in jaws made special equipment to help with filming requirements.

 
11. Based on the documentary, what are the responsibilities of a producer?

The producer was responsible from turning an idea to a successful film. This person is who gets a successful studio to finance the film. They are involved throughout all production stages.

12. What does the producer do once principal photography has finished?

The producers responsibility is to arrange the distribution of the film once principle photography has finished.

13. What did the production designer do on the film?

The production designer was responsible for creating the look for the film. This was done by aiding in designing sets.

 

14. How does Spielberg reflect on the production process in the final stages of the doco?

 Spielberg reflcted in the production process as something that dragged on. He said he could never get away from it as he would dream on being on day four of production. As well as problems with the shark, he said it was a very slow process.