One of the things that I love the most about living in Los Angeles, is that there is always “a first time.” It’s like an endless and exciting treasure hunt in search of new places and experiences. I have visited The Hollywood Bowl many times, enjoying all kinds of musical performances, including the yearly -and mandatory for cinephiles- John Williams’ concerts.

But last Saturday’s JAWS – in Concert was my first “movie in concert,” where a film is projected on a big screen (or many screens, in this case), while its score is played live. Steven Spielberg’s 1975 classic “Jaws” was in the menu, and composer David Newman and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra were tasked with bringing to life John William’s masterful and defining work.

To do The Bowl right, one has to arrive early, so I got there a couple hours before showtime. Its idyllic premises, with a welcoming atmosphere, is the perfect destination for a hot summer afternoon (always a few degrees cooler than the Valley).

While I was relishing a delicious wine, tasty food, and even better company, I looked around and started to think about the power of movies: Thousands of people were coming together to share with a bunch of strangers a work of popular art created over four decades ago. The vast majority weren’t there because they haven’t seen “Jaws” before, or they couldn’t access it through more convenient channels. It wasn’t about “Let’s kill some time and watch a movie,” it was a celebration.

Ready to experience #JawsInConcert at the magnificent #HollywoodBowl!

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I had a “box seat,” a canvas chair in a squarish section for four people, enclosed by wooden partitions. It was the perfect spot to fully appreciate the stage, the big screen above the musicians, and the majestic and darkening sky. There may not be a better way to see -and listen to- a movie like this, one that takes place mostly in the open, surrounded by nature.

When the orchestra started playing what is commonly referred as “The Shark Theme,” everybody started clapping and cheering. Similar expressions of collective joy and reverence -rarely witnessed in more traditional settings- were peppered throughout the evening, especially when the main protagonists appeared for the first time. It was something contagious, like doing “the wave” during a soccer game. Even when you were expecting a jump scare, you couldn’t help gasping in synchronicity.

I was a teenager the last time that I saw “Jaws” (spoiler alert: many years ago!). The film, considered the first blockbuster, is a mix of different genres -drama, horror, comedy, thriller, action- perfectly balanced by a young Spielberg. A welcoming intermission not only gave me the chance to stretch my legs, but it also helped me realize how different the first and the second parts of the movie are: From the populated and effervescent Amity Island, to the more intimate scene at sea.

The concert, in general, also made clear that the “Less is more” mantra, not only applied to the Great White shark. William’s score was far from being omnipresent, making it even more powerful when it interjects.

When the credits rolled and it was time to go home, it really felt like we have all traveled to a familiar, yet new place. The sometimes lonely experience of enjoying a cinematic work, had been enriched by a combination of different ingredients, and the collaboration between the past and the present.

After this delightful experience, one thing I know for sure: To embark on a magical and massive journey, we don’t need a bigger Bowl.

– Click here to learn about upcoming performances!

About The Author

@NestorCine es un periodista y crítico de cine en Hollywood. LA-based entertainment journalist and RT-approved critic. LEJA member.