The Fascinating Journey of Steven Spielberg to Directorial Stardom: The True Story Behind Jaws

Steven Spielberg is often hailed as a master filmmaker, and his masterpiece, Jaws, plays a significant role in his legendary career. However, the path that led to Spielberg directing Jaws was not straightforward. This article delves into the behind-the-scenes story of how Spielberg climbed up the ladder to become the visionary director behind one of the most iconic films of all time.

From Early Opinions to Final Choice

Producers Richard Zanuck and David Brown had high stakes in their hands when they decided to adapt Peter Benchley's novel Jaws into a Hollywood blockbuster. Initially, they considered veteran filmmaker John Sturges, whose resume included the maritime adventure film The Old Man and the Sea. Sturges's expertise in maritime landscapes and renowned experience made him an attractive candidate.

Will John Sturges Combine the Right Elements?

John Sturges, known for his extensive experience in directing maritime adventures, appeared to be a perfect fit for the role. His previous film The Old Man and the Sea showcased his ability to capture the essence of the sea and its surroundings. However, the producers were ultimately disappointed by Sturges's habits.

It is reported that Sturges had a tendency to describe the shark in the story as a whale, which brought up some serious concerns about his understanding of the nature of the shark. This inconsistency could have undermined the integrity of the film, leading to the producer's decision to drop Sturges from the project. The constant references to the shark as a whale seemed to be a deal-breaker, and it became clear that a director with a more accurate and intimate knowledge of the subject was needed.

A Young Director's Dream Comes True

When the producers were faced with this dilemma, they turned their attention to Steven Spielberg. Despite his relative youth—Spielberg was just 26 years old—his recent work on The Sugarland Express had caught their attention. After acing an interview and noticing their copy of the unpublished Benchley novel, Spielberg had a profound realization. He noticed the copy of the novel Jaws and was captivated by it during a meeting with the producers. This opportunity could not be missed, and Spielberg soon found himself lobbying for the role of director.

The Sugarland Express, Spielberg's first theatrical film, had already impressed Zanuck and Brown. This early success laid the foundation for Spielberg's ambitions. As he read the novel, he recognized striking similarities between Jaws and his 1971 television film Duel. Both dealt with the menace of a relentless, silent, and deadly force. The parallels in narrative and themes indicated a director who could effectively handle the tension and suspense integral to the project.

Why Steven Spielberg Over Dick Richards

Meanwhile, Dick Richards, who had previously worked for Zanuck and Brown, was also considered for the role. Although Richards had directed The Culpepper Cattle Co. less than a year before, his repeated habit of referring to the shark as a whale indicated a lack of understanding of the nature of the creature. This oversight proved to be a critical flaw in his suitability for the role. As a result, Richards was dropped from the project, and Zanuck and Brown chose Spielberg to helm Jaws.

The Impact of Dick Richards' Missteps

Richard Richards' early attempts to direct the film were marked by a fundamental misunderstanding of the shark's nature. His repeated blunder of describing the shark as a whale reverberated through the producers' efforts. It underscores the necessity of an accurate and comprehensive understanding of the subject for a director to bring a film to life authentically.

Even after Richards was dropped, the producers maintained their belief in Jaws and its potential to be a monumental success. This perseverance brought about the right person at the right time for the project. Steven Spielberg's subsequent success in directing Jaws solidified his reputation as a visionary director and set the stage for his future unparalleled successes in Hollywood.

In conclusion, the story of Jaws and its directorial selection is a landmark achievement in cinema history. It is a testament to the importance of choosing the right person for the right role, especially when that role demands a deep understanding of the subject matter. The journey from veteran filmmakers like John Sturges to the up-and-coming Steven Spielberg provides a compelling narrative that continues to inspire aspiring filmmakers around the world.