JAWS: The Exhibition - Screen Used Props and More
Diving Into Terror and Movie Magic: Visiting Jaws: The Exhibition
The first time I saw Jaws as a kid, it absolutely terrified me. That fear never really left—instead, it slowly transformed into a lifelong fascination. Over the years, Jaws became more than just a movie to me; it became an obsession, a cultural touchstone, and a piece of cinematic history I deeply admired. I never could have imagined that one day I’d meet Richard Dreyfuss, let alone have him sign collectibles from my personal archive. And I certainly never expected to walk through an exhibition dedicated to Jaws, filled with screen-used props and artifacts from the film itself.
Yet that’s exactly what happened at Jaws: The Exhibition at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles.
Stepping Underwater
From the moment you approach the exhibit, it feels like entering another world. The design immediately evokes the sensation of going underwater—dim lighting, immersive visuals, and the looming presence of the shark itself. Even before officially stepping inside, you’re greeted by massive signage and, above the escalators, Bruce the shark in all his terrifying glory. It’s impossible not to feel small standing beneath him.
Once inside, the experience becomes even more intense. The exhibit is carefully curated to make visitors feel hunted, echoing the suspense that made Jaws so iconic. It’s atmospheric, thrilling, and deeply respectful of the film’s legacy.
Screen-Used Props and Hidden Details
The heart of the exhibition lies in its extraordinary collection of screen-used props and original materials. Highlights include the actual buoy used in the film—complete with handwritten notes still visible on its weathered surface—as well as Chief Brody’s badge, Richard Dreyfuss’s screen-used backpack, and barrels used during the hunt for the shark.
There are also original cameras, including underwater rigs, displayed alongside photographs showing them in use during filming. Seeing these tools up close is a powerful reminder of how groundbreaking and difficult the production truly was.
One particularly fascinating section focuses on the constantly evolving script. On display are drafts of the screenplay, production notes, and even the typewriter used during rewrites. Nearby sits a piece of wood from the log cabin where Steven Spielberg stayed while working on the film—an unexpectedly intimate glimpse into the creative chaos behind the scenes.
Art, Sound, and Movie History
Concept art, storyboards, and original poster designs line the walls, including the artwork that would eventually become one of the most recognizable movie posters of all time. The exhibit also celebrates the music of Jaws, with a dedicated section honoring John Williams. On display are his conductor’s baton, stopwatch, and sweep clock used during scoring sessions, accompanied by photos of the orchestra at work.
Another standout moment is seeing the actual editing machine used to cut Jaws—a powerful symbol of the craftsmanship that earned the film its Academy Award for editing.
The Orca and Iconic Scenes
The emotional centerpiece of the exhibit is the recreation of the Orca, Quint’s boat. Surrounded by screen-used props—including Quint’s chair, fishing gear, and shark jaws once hung in his shack—it feels as though you’ve stepped directly into the movie. Nearby, a tribute to Quint’s haunting USS Indianapolis monologue adds chills, especially knowing the story behind its one-take performance.
The exhibit also leans into interactivity, allowing visitors to play the Jaws theme on a color-coded keyboard or manipulate a model shark, making the experience engaging for both casual fans and die-hard devotees.
A Cultural Phenomenon
The final section explores Jaws’ lasting impact on pop culture—from merchandise and toys to parodies and reinterpretations. Posters, beach towels, tiki mugs, and even unexpected crossovers (including Muppets-themed Jaws art) highlight how deeply the film has embedded itself into our collective imagination.
For many, Jaws wasn’t just a movie—it was a formative experience. It terrified generations, kept people out of the ocean, and forever changed how suspense was crafted on screen. Walking through this exhibition feels like reliving that first fear, but with a new appreciation for the artistry behind it.
Final Thoughts
Jaws: The Exhibition is more than a museum display—it’s a love letter to one of the most influential films ever made. If you’re in Los Angeles and even remotely a fan of Jaws, this is an experience you shouldn’t miss. It’s immersive, nostalgic, and genuinely awe-inspiring.
As someone who once watched Jaws terrified in my grandmother’s bed, this journey felt full circle. Some fears never leave you—but sometimes, they turn into something truly magical.