Written and directed by Stephen Scarlata, in the wake of blockbuster classic Jaws, a new subgenre was born. This new documentary explores the weird, wild cinematic legacy of sharks on film and the world’s undying fascination. Starring: Joe Alves, Roger Corman, Joe Dante, Misty Talley, Mario Van Peebles, Anthony C. Ferrante and many more.
The first half of Sharksploitation explores how Jaws and the wave of shark inspired monster movies, thrillers and sci-fi flicks altered the perception of viewers internationally. How it shaped the minds of people previously unafraid of the water or not even giving a second thought to sharks, making them hesitant to wade in or feeling a need to hunt sharks. The latter being the unforeseen negative impact that this iconic blockbuster had, a shockwave of consequences for the populations of shark species that would continue for years to come.
It was a great choice on the part of Stephen Scarlata to include a number of different experts in marine biology to explain that impact. As well as having different voices from cinema to talk about the process and ideas behind the films and their evolution. It’s shocking to learn some of the cold and casual nature with which sharks were harmed and killed in the making of films in the earlier days. It provides a great example for how to move forward, how it doesn’t mean shark films should no longer exist but that they should be viewed for what they are, fiction. While keeping in mind that sharks are a valuable part of their ecosystem.
However, it does feel as though the film weakens in its second half, the talking heads are still interesting to listen to but it covers some obvious ground. It gets stuck in a pattern of just following the timeline of shark films without really providing any unique insight. There wasn’t really a need to spend much time on how these films have developed to the point of hilarity. We all know how enjoyably ridiculous shark films have become and those films are never going to cause any sort of mass hysteria or fear.
Sharksploitation is a walk down memory lane of iconic shark cinema, a look at the real-life impact of stoking the fire of fear of sharks and an appreciation of cheesy shark flicks, all rolled into one. Some elements work better than others but one thing it hits the nail on the head with is being something both avid fans and newbies can enjoy. It’s a great mix of talking heads who bring a nicely rounded perspective, and even though a big part of this is discussing the negative impact, it never shades a bad light on the films or discourages anyone from enjoying them.
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