On Day One of Jaws week, I highlighted Spielberg’s excellent use of image and subtle exposition to set up the film’s plot in the opening moments. Getting a story moving properly from the start is challenging, and Jaws does it almost perfectly.
On Day Two, I have created a video that expands upon that structural analysis and demonstrates Spielberg’s incredible juxtapositions between calm scenes and those that exhibit intensity or violence. Jaws is, at heart, just a monster movie, but the way to build the right amount of fear is through story structure.
Notice how the action constantly rises and falls, almost creating a sense of sea-sickness in the audience. Jaws can even be used as the perfect example of the “no turning back” plot marker. At precisely the half-way point of the film, the story reaches its most desperate point, and dramatic action MUST be taken to save the town. There are no other options. This point in the film kicks off the third act showdown between the men of the Orca and the terrorizing Great White.
Take a look for yourself here at how Spielberg uses action and juxtaposition to manipulate our emotions. Enjoy!
On Day Two, I have created a video that expands upon that structural analysis and demonstrates Spielberg’s incredible juxtapositions between calm scenes and those that exhibit intensity or violence. Jaws is, at heart, just a monster movie, but the way to build the right amount of fear is through story structure.
Notice how the action constantly rises and falls, almost creating a sense of sea-sickness in the audience. Jaws can even be used as the perfect example of the “no turning back” plot marker. At precisely the half-way point of the film, the story reaches its most desperate point, and dramatic action MUST be taken to save the town. There are no other options. This point in the film kicks off the third act showdown between the men of the Orca and the terrorizing Great White.
Take a look for yourself here at how Spielberg uses action and juxtaposition to manipulate our emotions. Enjoy!