The Rewatchables: 'Jaws 2’ with Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Rewatchables, host Bill Simmons is joined by Chris Ryan and Sean Fennessey to dive deep into the waters of Jaws 2. Together, they explore the film's enduring appeal, dissect its strengths and shortcomings, and discuss its place in the legacy of movie sequels.
Initial Impressions and Pacing
Bill Simmons kicks off the discussion by expressing his affection for Jaws 2 despite its pacing issues:
Bill Simmons (02:12): "I love this movie. The first hour is pretty rough. It's slow."
The trio acknowledges that while the movie starts sluggishly, it gains momentum as it progresses, reminiscent of blending the first 80 minutes of Die Hard with a Vengeance into the latter half of Jaws 2.
Character Development and Acting Performances
Chief Martin Brody
A major point of discussion revolves around Chief Brody's character development:
Sean Fennessey (05:07): "Brody was afraid of the water. And then he had the most traumatic experience... And then he's like, I think I'll stay near the water. Like, what the fuck?"
The hosts critique Brody's inconsistent motivations, questioning why a traumatized man would choose to remain in a perilous environment.
Mayor Larry Vaughn Jr.
The portrayal of Mayor Larry Vaughn Jr. sparks debate about political dynamics in the film:
Sean Fennessey (56:19): "This is a slasher teen movie. It's a PTSD damaged hero movie... it's a shark movie. And I think [Jaws 2] kind of invents it."
They delve into the mayor's compartmentalization and his relationship with Brody, suggesting political undertones and character flaws.
Roy Scheider's Performance
Roy Scheider's portrayal is scrutinized for its subdued and almost resentful demeanor:
Bill Simmons (07:48): "You can kind of feel it in some of the scenes where he's just like, put the cue card right there."
The discussion highlights how Scheider's off-screen reluctance translated into his on-screen performance, adding a layer of complexity to Brody's character.
Memorable Scenes and Shark Kills
Gasoline Scene
One of the most praised scenes involves a woman using gasoline to fend off the shark:
Sean Fennessey (31:46): "It's like, my favorite thing in the movie. I love that so much."
This inventive and dramatic moment stands out as a testament to creative problem-solving in dire situations.
Eddie's Demise
Eddie's tragic end is another focal point:
Chris Ryan (40:03): "Most rewatchable. I think Eddie getting eaten is the best scene."
The hosts reflect on the emotional impact and execution of this pivotal moment.
Electric Cable Ending
The climactic confrontation with the shark using electric cables is analyzed for its ingenuity:
Bill Simmons (39:03): "He's like, they're also attracted to hot girls. Most rewatchable."
The scene is lauded for its creative approach, despite some scientific implausibilities.
Plot and Storytelling Critiques
Inconsistencies and Plot Holes
Several plot inconsistencies are highlighted, such as Brody's decision to stay in Amity despite his PTSD and the bewildering choice to leave a 10-year-old child unattended during a shark attack.
Bill Simmons (38:44): "They left him behind."
The discussion questions the logical coherence of these decisions and their impact on character credibility.
Director and Production Challenges
The shift from director John D. Hancock to a TV director introduces further complications:
Sean Fennessey (06:27): "They decided not to put that in the movie. Probably a good idea."
The hosts explore how these changes affected the film's narrative flow and overall quality.
Impact on Sequels and the Film Industry
Setting the Template for Horror Sequels
Jaws 2 is credited with laying the groundwork for future horror sequels, blending familiar elements with new plotlines.
Sean Fennessey (03:21): "This movie... kind of invents it."
The hosts argue that its commercial success, despite mixed reviews, encouraged the proliferation of similar sequel productions.
Comparison to Other Sequel Films
Comparisons are made with other franchises like Halloween and Damien Omen, discussing how Jaws 2 influenced their development.
Sean Fennessey (12:26): "Anybody should review all of the top sequels."
This section underscores the film's role in shaping sequel dynamics in Hollywood.
Casting What-ifs and Hot Takes
Alternative Casting Choices
Speculative casting discussions include:
Bill Simmons: "What if Roy Scheider was in Deer Hunter?"
These hypotheticals explore how different actors could have altered the film's reception and legacy.
Lack of Diversity
A critical take on the film's homogeneous cast leads to broader conversations about representation in 1970s cinema.
Sean Fennessey (52:34): "Why are there no minorities in Amity at all?"
This highlights the film's dated approach to diversity, contrasting it with contemporary standards.
Legacy and Final Thoughts
Despite its flaws, Jaws 2 holds a place in cinematic history as a foundational sequel that influenced the horror genre.
Sean Fennessey (62:06): "This movie... made sequels more about capitalizing on the original's success than delivering quality storytelling."
The hosts conclude by acknowledging the film's mixed legacy, balancing its commercial triumph with critical shortcomings.
Notable Quotes
- Bill Simmons (02:12): "I love this movie. The first hour is pretty rough. It's slow."
- Sean Fennessey (03:21): "This movie... kind of invents it."
- Chris Ryan (40:03): "Most rewatchable. I think Eddie getting eaten is the best scene."
- Sean Fennessey (31:46): "It's like, my favorite thing in the movie. I love that so much."
Key Takeaways
- Influence on Sequels: Jaws 2 played a pivotal role in defining the trajectory of movie sequels, especially within the horror genre.
- Memorable Moments: Despite pacing issues, the film boasts several standout scenes that contribute to its rewatchable status.
- Character and Plot Flaws: Inconsistent character motivations and plot holes detract from the film's overall coherence.
- Production Hurdles: Direction changes and off-screen tensions impacted the final product, affecting performances and storytelling.
- Legacy of Representation: The film's lack of diversity reflects the era's norms but stands in contrast to today's inclusive standards.
Conclusion
Jaws 2 remains a topic of fascination for movie enthusiasts, blending nostalgia with critical analysis. While it may not achieve the legendary status of its predecessor, its role in shaping the sequel landscape is undeniable. This episode of The Rewatchables offers a comprehensive look at what makes Jaws 2 both beloved and criticized, providing valuable insights for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.