The new documentary Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story will premiere tonight, July 10, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET on National Geographic. It will be available to stream the next day, July 11, on Disney+ and Hulu. The film explores the making of Steven Spielberg’s classic 1975 movie Jaws, featuring rare behind-the-scenes footage and new interviews with the director, cast, and crew.
What Is the Documentary About?
Jaws @ 50 is an official look at how the iconic shark movie was made. It includes never-before-seen clips from Spielberg’s personal archives, including home videos and deleted scenes. The film also examines how Jaws changed Hollywood, created the summer blockbuster trend, and impacted shark conservation efforts.
“I really truly regret that the decimation of the shark population happened because of the book and the film,” Spielberg said in a past interview about the movie’s unintended consequences on shark hunting.
The documentary features interviews with original cast members like Richard Dreyfuss, Lorraine Gary, and Robert Shaw’s son, Ian Shaw. Famous filmmakers like James Cameron, Guillermo del Toro, and Jordan Peele also share how Jaws influenced their work.
Where Can You Watch It?
- TV Premiere: National Geographic, July 10, 9 p.m. ET
- Streaming: Disney+ and Hulu, starting July 11
- Physical Release: Included in the Jaws 50th Anniversary Edition on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and Digital, available June 17, 2025
The documentary is directed by Laurent Bouzereau, who has worked on other film retrospectives like Faye and Music by John Williams. It is produced by Spielberg’s Amblin Documentaries and National Geographic.
Why Is This Documentary Special?
Unlike past Jaws behind-the-scenes features, this documentary has Spielberg’s full participation, making it the most detailed account yet. It covers the film’s troubled production, including the malfunctioning mechanical shark, budget issues, and Spielberg’s fear that the movie would ruin his career.
“There were radio mics all over the island, and they were always saying, ‘The shark is not working. Repeat, the shark is not working,’” recalled Richard Dreyfuss about the difficult filming process.
The documentary also discusses the “Jaws effect”—how the movie made people afraid of sharks but later helped conservation efforts. Marine scientists and shark experts explain how public perception has shifted over the years.
How Does This Connect to Other Jaws 50th Anniversary Events?
- Theatrical Re-Release: Jaws will return to U.S. theaters from August 29 to September 4, 2025, in 4K, IMAX, and other special formats.
- NBC Broadcast: Spielberg introduced a special 50th-anniversary airing of Jaws on NBC on June 20.
- Home Release: The 50th Anniversary Edition includes over five hours of bonus features, including this documentary.
The documentary is part of National Geographic’s SHARKFEST, an annual event celebrating shark-themed programming.
What Are Fans Saying?
Early reactions from film critics and fans praise the documentary for its deep dive into Jaws’ legacy. Many highlight Spielberg’s honest reflections on the film’s challenges and impact.
“This is the definitive Jaws documentary we’ve been waiting for,” said one reviewer.
The documentary also includes emotional stories from Peter Benchley’s family, who discuss how the author later became a shark conservationist.
Final Details
For those who want to experience Jaws in theaters, tickets for the August re-release will be available soon on platforms like Fandango. The documentary will remain on Disney+ and Hulu after its premiere.
Also Read: Emily Blunt in Talks to Lead Steven Spielberg’s Mysterious Summer Project
Credits: Information gathered from National Geographic, Universal Pictures
