JAWS 50th Anniversary: Martha's Vineyard concerned by lack of event proposal details

The descendant of Universal Studios' founders is actively developing plans for a 50th anniversary JAWS festival on the Island, yet specific details remain elusive.

Michael Dakin Cochrane convened with Aquinnah officials via Zoom on Tuesday to deliberate the event, proposing June 15 to 25, 2025, aligning with the original release date of JAWS by Universal Studios on June 20, 1975.

To aid in the planning and execution, Mr. Cochrane enlisted the services of the Los Angeles-based firm Notion. Lester Perkins and Sean O'Connor, principals of the company, also participated in the Zoom meeting.

Despite discussions, details remain uncertain, notably regarding the management of extensive logistics, an issue repeatedly raised by Aquinnah select board members during the session.

“This seems premature because you don’t know what you are asking for,” said select board chair Tom Murphy.

Mr. Perkins emphasized his commitment to uniting the Jaws community on the Island where the iconic film was shot, expressing optimism that numerous individuals involved in its production would participate. However, he underscored that talks were still in their infancy, and currently, his company's primary focus was on understanding the potential opportunities from Vineyard officials.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, was used as Amity Island primarily because even twelve miles out to sea, the sandy bottom was only thirty feet down, allowing the mechanical shark to function

“We are trying to understand what our options are,” Mr. Perkins said. “As you can imagine we have a lot to do. We have to nail down the size and scope of the event and want to do it in partnership with the community. We can’t plan a series of events until we understand the limitations of what is appropriate.”

Aquinnah officials highlighted certain constraints, citing concerns over the delicate ecosystem surrounding the cliffs and the insufficient parking available in the vicinity.

Earlier this year, in discussions, Mr. Cochrane proposed potential tributes to the film, such as arranging for the Boston Pops to perform John Williams' renowned score at the cliffs.

During Tuesday's meeting, Mr. Cochrane reiterated that it was premature to delve into concrete concepts.

“I have some grandiose ideas but don’t want to make promises about anything that we haven’t scoped out,” he said.

Select board member Juli Vanderhoop emphasized her enthusiasm, along with many others in the community, for a potential event at the cliffs in June. “I think that these days, throughout June, could be a significant attraction for the businesses on the circle,” she said. “It could be a positive time of year for Aquinnah.”

Aquinnah Land Bank Commissioner Sara Thulin emphasized the necessity of additional details before any progress could be made.

“We would need to pin down specifics and numbers of people,” she said. “Traffic would be difficult, there’s no parking other than our town parking lot.”

Ms. Thulin also inquired about the inclusion of down-Island locations in the plans, noting that many of them were more prominently featured in the film.

“I’m interested in what contacts you have made down-Island?” she asked.

Mr. Perkins mentioned that the group aims to incorporate additional locations into the celebration, although this aspect is still in the planning phase. Mr. Cochrane mentioned having previously discussed screenings with Richard Paradise, the executive director of the Martha’s Vineyard Film Society, for his theater.

Regarding the financial aspects, particularly how the town would be compensated, Mr. Perkins assured that it was indeed included in the budget.

“Yes, every location, every venue will be compensated,” Mr. Perkins said. “Not a donation, but something we will negotiate with you. If we are to move forward, everyone will be paid.”

Martha’s Vineyard is currently looking for a new Executive Director (posted 21st March)

Mr. Murphy also raised the query regarding motivation.

“What’s in it for you?” he asked.

“I love the movie, and having the chance to work with new people on a project that means something is why we do this,” Mr. Perkins said.

Mr. Cochrane emphasized his familial connection to the film.

“My family made this movie and I have an emotional connection to it, from when I was a child,” he said. “There’s only one 50th anniversary and we want to make sure it’s done the right way.”

Aquinnah officials expressed their openness to all suggestions but emphasized the requirement for further information.

“The devil is in the details, and we don’t have any details yet,” Mr. Murphy said.

Mr. Perkins, Mr. O’Connor, and Mr. Cochrane concurred, proposing that all parties reconvene in a few months to resume discussions.

Words by Ross Williams

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