The 1970s served up several films which had significant impacts on the world. There’s no doubt “Star Wars,” “The Godfather,” and “The Exorcist” made a lasting impact on moviegoers across the globe. Another little film which probably caused many vacationing spots near the oceans to lose business in the summer of 1975 was “Jaws.”
I still remember the horrified look on my mother’s face when she picked me up from my grandparent’s house the night she saw it. Her beet-red face and fearful eyes made an instant impact I can still remember 37 years later.
Thanks to Universal Studios Home Entertainment, everyone can now enjoy “Jaws” in high-definition glory. It’s digitally remastered and fully restored from the original high resolution 35mm film elements. The “Jaws” 2-Disc Blu-ray + DVD Combo Pack is the classic film like you’ve never seen it before.
I thought the remastered version they did back for the movie’s 20th anniversary celebration couldn’t look any better. This makes that edition look like a dirty VHS copy in comparison. No one’s seen “Jaws” until they’ve watched it on Blu-ray. The picture is spectacular to say the least. There’s so much clarity you’d think it was just filmed yesterday. Yet somehow it hasn’t lost any of its 1970’s grittiness or “real film” flavor.
Universal gives us a brand new 7.1 surround sound mix which will have viewers jumping out of their chairs. The infamous score accentuates every thrilling scene and rings out like you’ve never heard before. Every scream of a victim rings out in horrific clarity.
Consumers will be more than pleased with the amount of special features included in this edition. There are two feature length documentaries with cast and crew interviews and never-before-seen footage entitled “The Shark is Still Working: The Impact and Legacy of ‘Jaws'” and “The Making of ‘Jaws.'” It also contains four featurettes including “‘Jaws:’ The Restoration,” “From the Set,” “Marketing ‘Jaws,'” and “‘Jaws’ Phenomenon.” There are deleted scenes and outtakes, storyboards, production photos, and the original theatrical trailer for fans to enjoy as well.
It’s safe to say the “Jaws” 2-Disc Blu-ray + DVD Combo Pack is an exhaustive edition that features everything a fan of classic cinema or the movie could ever want. This is the closest you’ll ever get to going behind-the-scenes of the film short of sitting down with Steven Spielberg for a five-hour dinner and private screening. A phenomenal high-definition transfer and loads of special features make this an absolute must-have.
For more articles by Eric Shirey, check out:
You’re Going to Need a Bigger Boat: Four Films You Need to See About Sharks
‘Shark Night 3D’ Can’t Avoid ‘Jaws’ Comparisons
‘Dinoshark’ Blu-ray/DVD Movie Review
