Los Angeles is celebrating the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975) spectacularly this year, starting with one of the Hollywood Bowl’s famous film concerts and culminating in a major new exhibition at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. The Oscar-winning film has long been considered the “first summer blockbuster” and one of the greatest films in history, lauded for its unmistakable score and influence on the creature horror subgenre. Whether you’re a film buff or a casual fan, you won’t want to miss these special events honoring Jaws in L.A.—here’s what to know.
Jaws in Concert at the Hollywood Bowl
The L.A. Philharmonic presents “Jaws In Concert” this Saturday. For the first time, audiences can experience John Williams’ Academy Award-winning score performed live at the Hollywood Bowl. As evocative as the music feels watching the film on its own, there’s nothing quite like hearing a powerful live symphony orchestra playing in sync with one of the most gripping films in history. Stop by the Box Office Plaza for photo ops and character meet-and-greets courtesy of Universal Studios Hollywood.
📍 Where: Hollywood Bowl, 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
🗓️ When: Saturday, July 5, 2025 at 8pm
🌐 Learn more: Hollywood Bowl website
Jaws: The Exhibition at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
This September, Jaws: The Exhibition guides visitors through the Oscar-winning film’s most famous scenes, showcasing over 200 original items and artifacts from the set. Highlights include Roy Scheider’s Brody costume, the shark’s original design blueprints, and the making of John Williams’ legendary score. Gain a new appreciation for how Jaws has influenced motion picture history, especially through the use of strategic editing and sound to create suspense.
📍 Where: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
🗓️ When: Sept. 14, 2025 – July 26, 2026
🌐 Learn more: Read our article about Jaws: The Exhibition
Featured image (left): Director Steven Spielberg, kneeling with camera, during production of ‘Jaws’ (1975). Others unidentified. Courtesy of Margaret Herrick Library, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Featured image (right): Photo by Adam Latham, courtesy of the L.A. Philharmonic.