Jaws 2

Plot

Several years have passed since the events of the first film, and another shark seems to be hell bent on attacking those on the island of Amity. The one man who knows about history, is Martin Brody – still the Sherriff – and sees the signs as they occur – and tries to warn the city before more people are attacked.

Direction

Despite a new director, there was fairly decent direction from Jeannot Szwarc. While there is no stylistic techniques used – the action scenes are amped up this time around with more shark action. While this takes away the ‘horror/thriller’ element that made the original so grand.

Cast/Characters

Returning to the franchise are Roy Scheider, and Lorraine Gary as Martin and Ellen Brody. Also returning is Murray Hamilton as Mayor Larry Vaughn.

There are about a dozen or so adolescent cast added as either new or returning characters who become either fodder for the new shark – or bait.

Screenplay/Setting/Themes

While far from the grandiose of the original, the screenplay does what it is supposed to. There is some more on the nose ‘those in charge’ not listening to those who know what they are talking about. There is also a less impressive final act between Brody and the shark. Once again, it’s okay – but pales in comparison to the original.

Less frightening and intense than the original too, and with the monster seen almost instantly – it feels more ‘action’, especially given some of attacks done by the shark later in the film.

The town/city once again is a prominent setting as Amity itself is almost a character, as the characters almost feel it’s their right and identity to be both in and on the water, and Brody’s desire to stop them feels almost foreign to them – despite the towns history.

It is a little more cliché than the first, especially since once again – no one believes the hero (and even go as far as firing him for trying to help).

Score/Soundtrack

Once again John Williams gives a stellar score – including his original theme. There are plenty of moments within the film where his attention to detail is noticed, including moments of fun on the beach, and the kids taking their boats on the water in the third act.

Overall

Far from a terrible film (and from what memory and history tells me is coming within the franchise).

From an action film standpoint it is a solid narrative, with fun action and a great score. There is some almost ‘overacting’ in some places.

In contrast, it does seem evident that some actors did not want to be on screen, and the famous animosity they had towards filming is quite obvious.

Easily passable despite these flaws.

3.5/5