Jaws (franchise)

The film 'Jaws', directed by Steven Spielberg, was released on June 20, 1975. This thriller about a giant man-eating great white shark attacking beachgoers on Amity Island became a cultural phenomenon. It revolutionized the film industry by becoming the first 'summer blockbuster', achieving critical and commercial success.

'Jaws' became the highest-grossing film of all time by November 10, 1975. With box office earnings surpassing $100 million in the United States, it held the record until the release of 'Star Wars' in 1977. The success of 'Jaws' established the summer blockbuster as a central part of Hollywood's commercial strategy.

'Jaws 2' was released on June 16, 1978, as a sequel to the highly successful 'Jaws'. Directed by Jeannot Szwarc, it stars Roy Scheider again as police chief Martin Brody. Though not as well-received as the original, 'Jaws 2' was a commercial success and became the highest-grossing sequel at the time of its release.

'Jaws 3-D' was released on July 22, 1983. It is the third installment in the 'Jaws' franchise and incorporated 3D technology to attract audiences. Set in a marine park, the film features a new story with a great white shark causing havoc. Although it was notable for its use of 3D, the film received poor reviews.

'Jaws: The Revenge' was released on July 17, 1987, as the fourth and final installment of the 'Jaws' film series. Directed by Joseph Sargent, the film focuses on Ellen Brody's quest to defeat a shark that seems to be seeking revenge. It was criticized for its implausible plot and is often considered the weakest entry.

The video game adaptation of 'Jaws' was released on October 17, 1995, for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Developed by Westone Bit Entertainment, players control a diver and the game offers a different perspective on the 'Jaws' experience. It was one of many adaptations that kept the cultural presence of 'Jaws' alive in various formats.

The original 'Jaws' film was released on DVD for the first time on August 20, 2000. This release featured remastered video and audio as well as bonus features including behind-the-scenes footage and interviews, enhancing its status as a classic. The DVD release helped introduce the film to a new generation of viewers.

On June 2, 2005, 'Jaws' was added to the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress. The Registry recognizes films that are culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant, and 'Jaws' was selected for its revolutionary impact on Hollywood, particularly in regards to its pioneering of the summer blockbuster.

The 'Jaws 30th Anniversary Edition' DVD was released on June 14, 2005. This special edition included a digitally remastered version of the original film along with a comprehensive documentary about the making of 'Jaws' and its impact on cinema. It celebrated the film's legacy and enduring influence in popular culture.

On August 14, 2012, 'Jaws' was released on high-definition Blu-ray for the first time. This edition included a fully restored picture and sound, as well as new behind-the-scenes features and interviews with the cast and crew. The release revitalized interest in the classic film by offering it in a superior format.