Thrillers Jaws and Psycho Celebrate Anniversaries

It’s that time of year when studios release high-budget films with wide appeal in hopes of having the next summer blockbuster. And this year, two iconic summer films—both thrillers—are celebrating anniversaries: Jaws and Psycho.

Jaws, arguably the first summer blockbuster in history, celebrates its 40th anniversary in June. Beachgoers of 1975 were probably less interested in taking a dip in the water after seeing this thriller, and to this day John Williams’ unnerving “shark theme” sends chills up my spine. The film, which was a hit with both critics and viewers, became the highest grossing film to date. Star Wars topped it a few years later, and the 29-year-old Steven Spielberg would go on to become one of Hollywood’s most successful directors with a whole slew of summer blockbusters including some of my favorites: E.T. and Jurassic Park. For more on Spielberg’s career, with a chapter dedicated to Jaws, check out film critic Richard Schickel’s visually appealing and fascinating Steven Spielberg.

Fifteen years prior to Jaws, Alfred Hitchcock managed to scare another generation of summer moviegoers. Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho, which premiered on June 16, 1960, opened to mixed reviews. But viewers flocked to movie theaters to watch the controversial film and may have forgone showers for a while afterward. Despite the lukewarm reception from critics, Psycho has fared very well over the years. For a comprehensive look at this highly influential film, which broke taboos of the time, check out Alfred Hitchcock and the Making of Psycho.

What movie gives you the chills?