Horror fans across the UK are in for a classic slice of cinematic infamy tonight, as a much-maligned sequel from a legendary franchise swims onto television screens. Jaws: The Revenge, the fourth and final chapter in the iconic shark series, airs on ITV4 at 9pm, offering viewers a prime example of a 'so bad it's good' film.
A Rushed Production With Bite-Sized Budget
Released in 1987, the film arrived just four years after Jaws 3-D and was hurried into production in under nine months. Critics and reports from the time noted a significant lack of a finished script during early filming, a factor many believe contributed to its legendary status as the franchise's low point. Despite the chaotic production and poor critical reception, the film still commanded notable star power. Michael Caine, who played the charming pilot Hoagie Newcombe, was reportedly paid a hefty $1.5 million for his role.
The Plot That Defies Oceanic Logic
The story follows Ellen Brody (Lorraine Gary), the widow of Chief Brody from the original films, who believes her family is cursed by a great white shark. After her son is killed in an attack, she travels to the Bahamas to stay with her other son, Michael (Lance Guest). There, she finds romance with Hoagie. However, a massive shark—seemingly bent on revenge—appears off the coast, dragging Ellen back into a nightmare. The premise of a vengeful shark became a major point of ridicule for audiences and critics alike.
Audience Verdict: A Divisive Guilty Pleasure
While panned upon release, Jaws: The Revenge has since cultivated a peculiar cult following. On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, fans are split. Some defend it as an entertaining, if flawed, entry. One three-star review calls it "one of my biggest guilty pleasures", adding "its a film that is soo fascinatingly bad that it needs to be studied... its moments of insanity just add to its 'so bad, its good' entertainment value." Another viewer found "emotional and fun moments for everybody in the family."
However, many franchise purists are less forgiving. Detractors label it "easily the worst" chapter, criticising the plot, acting, and the shark's seemingly personal vendetta. One scathing comment reads, "Why does this movie even exist. Why a shark would seek revenge, it's trash." This stark division in opinion is precisely what makes the film a perfect candidate for a 'guilty pleasure' night in.
Whether you're a dedicated fan of the Jaws saga or simply curious about one of cinema's most famously flawed sequels, ITV4's broadcast tonight provides the perfect opportunity to judge for yourself. Does Jaws: The Revenge deserve its reputation as a so-bad-it's-good classic, or is it simply a film that should have stayed in the deep? Tune in to decide.
