A reunion panel featuring the cast of Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster Jaws took place at Frightmare in the Falls 2025, and is now available to view via RUE MORGUE TV on YouTube. The panel, hosted by Jeff Szpirglas of Rue Morgue magazine, commemorates the film’s 50th anniversary.
Frightmare in the Falls, a horror expo, served as the venue for this gathering of individuals involved in the making of a film that fundamentally reshaped the landscape of cinematic suspense. Jaws wasn’t simply a commercially successful movie. it’s widely credited with popularizing the summer blockbuster and establishing many of the tropes now commonplace in the thriller genre.
The significance of this reunion extends beyond mere nostalgia. Jaws’ impact on filmmaking techniques is considerable. The film’s director, Steven Spielberg, famously struggled with mechanical failures involving the animatronic shark during production. This forced him to rely more heavily on suggestion and suspense – showing less of the shark and building tension through John Williams’ iconic score and carefully framed shots of the aftermath of attacks. This approach, born out of necessity, became a hallmark of the film and influenced countless filmmakers who followed.
Rue Morgue, established in 1997, has long been a central hub for horror fans and professionals. The magazine, and now its associated Rue Morgue TV channel, focuses on horror in culture and entertainment, covering news, reviews, interviews, and events. The choice of Rue Morgue TV as the platform to host and distribute this reunion speaks to the enduring legacy of Jaws within the horror genre, despite its categorization as a thriller. The film’s themes of man versus nature, and the primal fear of the unknown, resonate deeply with horror audiences.
The panel itself, as documented in a YouTube video available through Rue Morgue TV, offers a retrospective look at the making of Jaws. While specific details of the discussion aren’t available without viewing the full video, the promotional material suggests a comprehensive exploration of the film’s production, legacy, and impact. Jeff Szpirglas, as the host, brings a recognized voice within the horror community to the conversation, likely facilitating insightful discussion with the cast members.
The availability of this reunion on YouTube expands its reach beyond those who attended Frightmare in the Falls. Rue Morgue TV’s presence on YouTube (@ruemorguetv) provides a dedicated space for horror-related content, and the Jaws reunion is positioned as a key offering within their programming. This strategy aligns with the broader trend of media companies leveraging YouTube to distribute exclusive content and engage with their audiences directly.
Beyond the Jaws reunion, Rue Morgue TV has recently featured other panels and interviews from Frightmare in the Falls, including a discussion with the cast of Rob Zombie’s “Firefly Trilogy.” This indicates a consistent effort to provide exclusive content from horror conventions and events, solidifying Rue Morgue TV’s position as a go-to source for horror fans seeking behind-the-scenes access and interviews.
The enduring appeal of Jaws is also reflected in recent horror releases. The Rue Morgue website currently features reviews of new horror films, including “THE STRANGERS—CHAPTER 3” and “WHISTLE,” demonstrating the continued demand for suspenseful and frightening cinematic experiences. While these films may employ different techniques and explore different themes, they all owe a debt to the groundwork laid by Jaws in establishing the conventions of the genre.
The 50th-anniversary reunion serves as a reminder of Jaws’ lasting influence, not only on filmmaking but also on popular culture. The film tapped into a deep-seated fear of the ocean and its hidden dangers, and its iconic imagery – the shark fin, the beach panic, the heroic struggle – remains instantly recognizable decades later. The availability of this reunion panel through Rue Morgue TV ensures that the story of Jaws, and the experiences of those who brought it to life, will continue to be shared with audiences for years to come.
