Jaws (1975)

There’s a mayor in Jaws who wears a blazer covered in little anchors, and he’s scarier than the shark, because the shark at least has an excuse. Spielberg keeps the big fish hidden for most of the movie, and when it finally pops up for a close look it’s a little rubbery, kinda like a pool toy with a grudge. That’s the honest problem, and it barely matters. Roy Scheider’s Brody is a police chief who’s afraid of the water, the funniest job match in film. Robert Shaw’s Quint is pure salt, and Richard Dreyfuss plays the rich kid scientist who gets out-toughed by every adult on the boat. The whole last act is three guys on one small boat and it’s tenser than most entire franchises. Made $280.1 million domestic off a reported $9 million budget. A 9.5 because every summer blockbuster since is still chasing it. $17.98 says you get in a pool this year, hear two notes in your head and climb right back out.

What works: Three actors on one small boat, a score that does half the scaring, and Spielberg making you fear what you can’t see.

What doesn’t: When the shark finally shows itself up close it looks rubbery, and the town hall scenes drag next to the boat.

Who it’s for: Anyone who has ever felt something brush their leg in the ocean and decided to swim faster.