Steven Soderbergh has revealed that what was originally planned as an in-depth book about the making of Steven Spielberg’s iconic film Jaws has evolved into an interactive app. This new format aims to offer an extensive exploration of the film’s production process, allowing users to engage in a detailed daily breakdown of the shoot. The project, initially referenced earlier this year as Production 02074 on Soderbergh’s personal website, has shifted focus to better deliver this comprehensive experience.
An Immersive Look into the Filmmaking Process
Addressing BK Mag, Soderbergh explained that the app will provide users with unique insights into how Spielberg’s thriller was captured scene by scene. It will meticulously document each day’s footage, shedding light on the many challenges the cast and crew faced throughout the famously difficult shoot. Alongside this, the app will incorporate extensive commentary from Soderbergh himself, featuring
“25,000 words of me talking about the film,”
showcasing his deep reflection on the project’s significance.
A Director’s Personal Journey and Insights
Soderbergh shared that the project’s origin was quite different.
“It started out as a book about directing in general,”
he said, adding that it evolved into a specific focus on the making of Jaws. This shift allows him to freely explore broader themes related to directing while remaining rooted in this defining film. He is currently awaiting a beta version of the app, which he expects to review and provide feedback on soon:
Image of: Steven Soderbergh
“I’m waiting, literally as we speak, I’m supposed to get a beta version of the app that I can navigate and look through and give notes on.”
The Impact of Jaws on Soderbergh’s Career
Reflecting on the personal significance of Jaws, Soderbergh described it as the catalyst that inspired him to pursue filmmaking. Watching the movie at a Florida theater in 1975 left a lasting impression on the young filmmaker:
“Jaws was the movie that made me want to make movies.”
He further elaborated on its excellence as a directing tool, noting the film’s ability to incorporate a diverse range of cinematic techniques:
“I was convinced that it had in it, the double helix of how to direct a movie, because it has everything. It has shots that last 27 frames. It has shots that last three minutes. It has humor. It has pathos. It has tension. It just has everything, you know? Like, if you were literally going to give somebody a directing tool kit, it’s a pretty good movie to start with because it’s got every sort of directorial approach that you might need to make a movie, except for the fact that it’s linear.”
Looking Ahead for the Steven Soderbergh Jaws App
The announcement of the Steven Soderbergh Jaws app marks an innovative approach to exploring film history and directing techniques through digital media. As development nears completion, audiences and users can anticipate a rich, interactive resource that blends detailed production insights with multimedia commentary. More information on the app’s release date and the platforms it will support is expected to be shared soon, offering a new way for fans and filmmakers alike to experience the legacy of Jaws.
