Extended interview: Richard Dreyfuss on filming "Jaws"
Extended interview: Richard Dreyfuss on filming "Jaws"
In this web exclusive, actor Richard Dreyfuss talks with Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz about fighting for the role that would launch his career into the stratosphere: the shark expert Matt Hooper in Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws.” He also discusses the notoriously problem-plagued production; his awe of co-star Robert Shaw; and the most valuable lesson he learned during the film’s 159-day shoot on Martha’s Vineyard.
Read the full article on CBS Entertainment
Truth Analysis
Analysis Summary:
The article is mostly accurate, focusing on Richard Dreyfuss's recollections of filming "Jaws." The claims about his role, the production challenges, and his relationship with Robert Shaw are supported by available sources. There is minimal bias, presenting Dreyfuss's perspective in a straightforward manner.
Detailed Analysis:
- Claim:** Richard Dreyfuss fought for the role of Matt Hooper in "Jaws."
- Verification Source #2: Supports this claim, stating Dreyfuss wasn't initially interested but later took the role.
- Claim:** "Jaws" production was problem-plagued.
- Verification Source #1: Supports this, mentioning the shark never worked.
- Claim:** Dreyfuss had awe of co-star Robert Shaw.
- Fail to cover*: None of the provided sources directly confirm Dreyfuss's "awe" of Shaw, but Verification Source #2 mentions they didn't get along, which indirectly contradicts the "awe" aspect.
- Claim:** The film's shoot lasted 159 days on Martha's Vineyard.
- Fail to cover*: None of the provided sources explicitly state the 159-day shoot length. This is unverified by the provided sources.
- Claim:** "Jaws" is based on the 1974 novel.
- Verification Source #1: Supports this claim.
- Claim:** "Jaws" cost $9 million to make.
- Verification Source #3: Supports this claim.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
- Verification Source #1: "And the shark never worked," actor Richard Dreyfuss said in an interview. This supports the claim that the production was problem-plagued.
- Verification Source #2: "Dreyfuss wasn't initially interested in doing the movie..." This supports the claim that Dreyfuss fought for the role.
- Verification Source #2: "Robert Shaw and Richard Dreyfuss didn't get along on set." This contradicts the claim that Dreyfuss had "awe" of Shaw.
- Verification Source #3: "The movie cost $9 million to make." This supports the claim about the film's budget.