Original Jaws Shark Has Been Fully Restored

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures shared the above photos of the restoration, which were led by Greg Nicotero, co-owner of KNB EFX. Fans will be able to see the restored prop on display at the museum when it opens in 2020.

The prop’s regular malfunctions led to the film running over budget and over schedule, while also preventing Spielberg from utilizing footage of the shark, as so little was ultimately usable. Interestingly, it was the film’s refusal to show audiences the beast that created such a frightening adventure, forcing our minds to conjure up images of the creature.

Star Richard Dreyfuss previously pondered if the film could be more successful if a CGI restoration could insert a new shark with today’s technical effects.

“I think they should do it, it would be huge and it would open up the film to younger people,” Dreyfuss shared with Deadline about the potential of re-releasing the film with upgraded visual effects. “Is that blasphemy? No, no, I don’t think so. The technology now could make the shark look as good as the rest of the movie.”

Even though the shark only appears in a handful of shots, Dreyfuss thinks those shots would be better if CGI replaced the practical prop.

“There are people who say Jaws is a perfect film otherwise and it is amazing what Steven accomplished with the challenges he had,” the actor noted. “But you’re dead-right, I think you’re on to something. They should put the money into CGI [to replace] that beast and make it come alive.”

Stay tuned for details on the opening of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.

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