Jaws: Blog Post 1

Jaws (1975), directed by Steven Spielberg, is the first "Summer Blockbuster" to be made in motion picture history. Different shots and angles were used in this film to convey different feelings and moods.

The shot above is an example of an establishing shot. It shows the surroundings and emphasises vacancy and nothingness, yet the audience is able to feel the girl's freedom and carefreeness as well as the serenity in the air as she runs towards the waters.

A blue filter is utilised to, on one hand, emphasise the tranquility of the scene and setting, and on the other hand, the coldness of that tone of colour. The waters look warm and inviting due to the girl's merry demeanor, but they also convey a sense that they are cold and deadly. In addition, the blue filter allows for her silhouette and movements to be seen clearly.

This scene is shot from a low angle, as if the camera was placed on the sand and left there, forgotten. This adds to the carefreeness of the scene as it seems more natural. Usually in low-angled shots, the character is moving towards the camera to create a tense and fearful atmosphere, but this is not the case in this scene; the girl is moving away from the camera. Instead of the girl feeling frightened, this scene causes the audience to feel anxious for her. As the girl runs from the safety of the shores and land into the dark depths of the ocean, we, as the audience, feel as if we are losing her by the second. Her safety on land is guaranteed, but in the waters she is vulnerable and the audience is aware.