5 Ways ‘Jaws’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

Jaws (1975) is a classic film that changed Hollywood forever. It created the summer blockbuster and made people afraid of the ocean. But not everything about it holds up today. Some parts feel dated or awkward to modern audiences. At the same time, other elements remain powerful and timeless. Let’s explore what hasn’t stood the test of time and what still shines.

This list breaks down five ways Jaws struggles with age and five ways it remains a masterpiece. From outdated visuals to unforgettable characters, we’ll look at both sides. Whether you’re a fan or revisiting it, here’s how Jaws holds up in 2025.

Visual Effects (Aged Poorly)

The shark in Jaws often looks fake by today’s standards. The mechanical model, nicknamed Bruce, was groundbreaking for its time but can feel clunky now. Modern CGI creates hyper-realistic creatures, and audiences expect seamless visuals. Close-up shots of the shark’s stiff movements or unnatural jaw can pull viewers out of the story. 

It’s not just the shark itself—some underwater scenes lack clarity. Limited technology meant murky visuals that don’t match the crisp quality we see in current films. While the effects were impressive in 1975, they don’t always hold up against today’s polished blockbusters. 

Suspenseful Storytelling (Aged Masterfully)

Jaws builds tension like few films can. The slow reveal of the shark keeps viewers on edge, even decades later. Spielberg’s choice to show less rather than more makes every splash terrifying. This approach feels fresh because it relies on imagination, not over-the-top visuals. 

The story’s simplicity—a small town facing a deadly threat—still resonates. It taps into primal fears of the unknown. Modern horror often leans on jump scares, but Jaws proves you don’t need them to keep hearts racing. Its suspense is timeless. 

Gender Roles (Aged Poorly)

The portrayal of women in Jaws feels stuck in the 1970s. Female characters, like Ellen Brody, are often sidelined or shown as worried wives with little depth. They exist to support the male heroes, not to drive the story. Today’s audiences expect more complex, active female roles. 

Even smaller moments, like casual sexism in dialogue, stand out as dated. These lines might have slipped by in 1975, but they feel out of place now. Modern films aim for equality and stronger representation, making these elements in Jaws hard to ignore. 

Character Dynamics (Aged Masterfully)

The trio of Brody, Hooper, and Quint is a highlight that still works. Their clashing personalities—Brody’s cautious chief, Hooper’s eager scientist, and Quint’s grizzled hunter—create compelling drama. Their banter and tension feel real, especially during the boat scenes. 

These characters shine because they’re flawed and human. Brody’s fear of water, Hooper’s inexperience, and Quint’s obsession make them relatable. Their dynamic carries the film, and it’s just as engaging today as it was back then. 

Scientific Accuracy (Aged Poorly)

Jaws takes liberties with shark behavior that don’t hold up. Great white sharks don’t stalk humans or act with revenge-like intent. The film paints them as mindless killers, which fueled real-world fear and misunderstanding. Modern audiences, with access to better science, notice these flaws. 

Some plot points, like the shark’s relentless attacks or its strength, feel exaggerated. Documentaries and research have debunked these myths, making parts of the story less believable. Today’s viewers want realism, and Jaws sometimes misses the mark. 

Universal Themes (Aged Masterfully)

The core of Jaws—fear of the unknown and survival—still hits hard. The story captures human struggles against nature and authority. Brody’s fight to protect his town while battling bureaucracy feels relevant in any era. 

The film also explores community and sacrifice. These ideas don’t age because they’re universal. Whether it’s a shark or another crisis, the human drive to overcome danger remains powerful and keeps Jaws relatable. 

Special Effects Limitations (Aged Poorly)

Beyond the shark, other effects in Jaws show their age. Explosions and some boat scenes look staged compared to modern blockbusters. The technology of the time couldn’t match today’s slick production values. 

Certain shots, like the shark cage sequence, feel rough. The limitations of practical effects are clear when viewed through a 2025 lens. Audiences now expect polished visuals, and these moments can break the immersion. 

Cinematic Atmosphere (Aged Masterfully)

Jaws creates a mood that’s hard to beat. The beach scenes, with their sunny yet eerie vibe, still feel alive. Spielberg’s use of light, shadow, and water builds a world that’s both beautiful and threatening. 

The film’s setting—a small coastal town—feels authentic. It draws you in, making the danger personal. This atmosphere doesn’t fade with time; it’s as gripping now as it was in theaters. 

Stereotypical Characters (Aged Poorly)

Some supporting characters in Jaws lean on outdated tropes. The greedy mayor, obsessed with tourism, feels like a caricature today. Other minor roles, like panicked tourists, lack depth and come off as clichés. 

These stereotypes were common in older films but stand out now. Modern storytelling favors nuanced characters, even in small roles. This makes parts of Jaws feel less sophisticated to today’s viewers. 

Emotional Impact (Aged Masterfully)

Jaws delivers raw emotion that still resonates. Moments like Brody’s reaction to his son mimicking him or Quint’s haunting monologue hit deep. These scenes tap into universal feelings of fear, loss, and connection. 

The film’s ability to balance terror with heart keeps it powerful. It’s not just about a shark; it’s about people facing their fears. This emotional core makes Jaws a classic that still moves audiences. 

What’s your take on how Jaws has aged—do you agree with these points or see it differently? Share your thoughts in the comments!