Gen Z's Cinema Gap: Only Half Have Watched 'Jaws'

Only 53% of Gen Z has experienced the thrill of “Jaws,” the classic summer blockbuster that terrified audiences 50 years ago. This statistic starkly contrasts with nearly 90% of those who grew up during its initial release.

Steven Spielberg’s iconic shark thriller, which debuted on June 20, 1975, has left a lasting impact on cinema and beachgoers alike. According to a recent Gallup poll, while 88% of individuals aged 65 and older have seen the film, younger viewers seem less inclined to dive into this cinematic experience.

The film, which dominated the box office for 14 weeks and was the first to gross over $100 million, has become a cultural touchstone. Yet, the reasons behind Gen Z's lukewarm reception remain unclear. Some speculate that the film's runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes may deter younger audiences accustomed to shorter content.

Among other age groups, viewership remains robust: 91% of those aged 50 to 64 and 78% of individuals between 30 and 49 have seen the film. The gripping narrative of a monstrous shark wreaking havoc on a Long Island beach town continues to resonate with many.

When “Jaws” first hit theaters, it made significant waves, with many viewers reporting increased anxiety about swimming in the ocean. A Gallup poll from the summer of its release indicated that 40% of 18-to-29-year-olds had seen it by the end of that season. At that time, 18% labeled it “the most frightening movie” they had ever encountered.

As of May, ahead of the film's anniversary, a total of 78% of all U.S. adults reported having watched “Jaws.” However, whether a 53% viewership among Gen Z is considered high or low remains ambiguous without further comparative data from other films.