Under the lens takes a deep look at films by focusing in on one or two particular areas of the picture that helped to define it for better or for worse.
Jaws 3 is a 1983 horror-thriller directed by Joe Alves and starring Dennis Quaid, Bess Armstrong, and Louis Gossett Jr. The story follows Mike Brody, son of Chief Brody from the original films, who now works as a park engineer at SeaWorld Florida. When a great white shark finds its way into the park’s lagoon, the staff must prevent disaster while keeping the park operational.
UNDER THE LENS: 3D EFFECTS AND DENNIS QUAID
3D Effects: Released during the brief 3D revival of the early 1980s, Jaws 3 heavily relies on its 3D gimmickry, often to its detriment. The film’s effects, primitive by today’s standards, consist of awkwardly staged sequences clearly designed to showcase the 3D technology. The shark attacks are particularly problematic, with the creature often moving in slow motion to emphasize the 3D effect, resulting in scenes that break any sense of tension or realism. The underwater sequences suffer from murky cinematography that makes it difficult to follow the action.
Dennis Quaid: Early in his career, Quaid brings an earnest energy to Mike Brody, though the script gives him little to work with. His performance suggests a character struggling with his family’s history with sharks, but this potentially interesting subplot is never fully developed. Quaid manages to maintain his dignity even in the most absurd situations, bringing a level of commitment to the role that the film arguably doesn’t deserve.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Louis Gossett Jr. provides some gravitas as the park’s ambitious manager
- The SeaWorld setting offers a unique backdrop for a shark movie
- Some of the practical effects, particularly the shark’s initial appearances, are effectively done
QUOTABLE QUOTE
Kay Morgan: “No one knows exactly how large a great white can get.”
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
How do you follow up a classic? Is it better to try something completely different or stick to the original formula?
CONCLUSION
Jaws 3 represents a significant departure from the taut thriller that Steven Spielberg created in 1975. The decision to move the action to SeaWorld and incorporate 3D technology shows an attempt to reinvigorate the franchise, but these choices ultimately work against the film. The enclosed setting, which could have created claustrophobic tension, instead feels contrived, and the 3D effects, rather than enhancing the experience, often render the action laughable.
The film does occasionally show glimmers of potential, particularly in its quieter moments when it focuses on the characters rather than the special effects. However, these moments are few and far between, lost in a sea of technical shortcomings and plot conveniences. The shark, when finally revealed in full, lacks the menacing presence of its predecessors, often appearing more mechanical than threatening.
While Jaws 3 might hold some nostalgic value for fans of 1980s horror or those interested in early 3D filmmaking, it stands as a cautionary tale about prioritizing gimmicks over storytelling. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most effective scares come not from what you can see coming right at you, but from what lurks beneath the surface.