Jaws at 50: A Deeper Dive
Jaws at 50: A Deeper Dive
Explore the story behind one of cinema’s most iconic films.
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of JAWS, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum is proud to present the first-ever comprehensive exhibition dedicated to the film’s production on Martha’s Vineyard. Through photographs, oral histories, original art, and movie props, this exhibit will delve into how the Island became the fictional Amity Island, showcasing the Vineyarders who brought the movie to life and the enduring legacy of Spielberg’s blockbuster.
Key Highlights:
- Creating a Monster (Morse Hallway): In the summer of 1975, Jaws exploded onto movie screens and into the cultural imagination. This introduction explores the making of a monster—from early storyboards to the creation of “Bruce,” the film’s mechanical shark—and sets the stage for a journey beneath the surface of Spielberg’s blockbuster and the Island that made it possible.
- Behind the Scenes, In Front of the Camera: The Islanders Who Made Jaws (Grain Family Gallery): From fishermen to photographers, local kids to carpenters, Vineyarders played key roles in bringing Jaws to life. Through photographs, oral histories, film props, and memorabilia, this section highlights the contributions of the Island community that helped make movie magic.
- The Making of Amity (Hollinshead and Fleischner Galleries): In the spring and summer of 1974, Martha’s Vineyard transformed into Amity Island. Discover how iconic scenes were filmed, explore the sets and locations, and see how the Vineyard’s landscape became a backdrop for cinematic suspense.
- A Lasting Legacy (Cox Gallery): When Jaws premiered on Martha’s Vineyard in June 1975, it launched more than a film—it launched a phenomenon. This section traces the legacy of Jaws through memorabilia, fan culture, and its lasting impact on Hollywood and the Island alike.
- The Extraordinary White Shark (Beim Gallery): Great white sharks are no Hollywood villains. This section, created in partnership with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, dives into the biology and behavior of these essential apex predators, exploring the science of shark senses, their role in marine ecosystems, and the urgent need for conservation through interactive displays.
- Share Your Story! (Blacklow Alcove): Share your own Jaws memories and favorite moments. Vote for your favorite character, recount the first time you saw the film, and see how others remember this cultural phenomenon.
Don’t Miss These Special Features:
- A scaled-down replica of the iconic “Amity Island Welcomes You” billboard.
- Interactive elements, including a to-scale model of the Orca interior (available for one week only).
Amity Homecoming Weekend
Join us June 19–23, 2025 for Amity Homecoming Weekend, a five-day celebration kicking off the 50th anniversary of Jaws. Enjoy special events, guest speakers, family-friendly activities, and a chance to connect with fellow fans and Island history.
Join us as we celebrate the cinematic magic and lasting legacy of Jaws—the film that forever linked Martha’s Vineyard to Hollywood history.
DETAILS
| From | May 24, 2025 |
|---|---|
| To | September 7, 2025 |
| Location | The Grain Family, Hollinshead, Cox, and Fleischner Galleries |