Who played Jaws in the James Bond movies? This question often arises among fans of the iconic film series. Jaws, also known as Jaws the Shark, is one of the most memorable and terrifying characters in the James Bond universe. In this article, we will delve into the actor who brought this menacing creature to life and explore the impact of Jaws on the James Bond legacy.
Jaws, a colossal great white shark, made his first appearance in the 1977 film “The Spy Who Loved Me,” directed by Lewis Gilbert. The character was portrayed by the talented actor Richard H. Kiel. Kiel was already well-known for his role as Jaws in the “James Bond” series before he even appeared in the first “Bond” movie. His portrayal of the shark in “The Spy Who Loved Me” was a turning point in his career, as it earned him international fame and a place in the hearts of Bond fans worldwide.
Kiel’s performance as Jaws was a combination of practical effects and innovative makeup techniques. The shark’s costume was a marvel of its time, with a full-sized, mechanical shark head that Kiel wore during his scenes. The costume was designed by makeup artist Rick Baker, who also created the memorable look for the alien in “An American Werewolf in London.” Baker’s work on Jaws was groundbreaking, as it allowed the character to move and breathe, adding a sense of realism to the film.
In “The Spy Who Loved Me,” Jaws plays a pivotal role in the plot. He is the main antagonist, and his presence is felt throughout the movie. The character is introduced early on, when he attacks a speedboat containing James Bond (played by Roger Moore) and his allies. This opening scene is one of the most iconic in the Bond series, as it sets the tone for the rest of the film and introduces the terrifying nature of Jaws.
Jaws’ portrayal of the shark as a cunning and relentless predator adds depth to the character. He is not just a mindless creature; he has a purpose and a will to survive. This makes him a formidable opponent for Bond, who must outsmart and outmaneuver him to save the day. Kiel’s performance as Jaws is a perfect blend of brute strength and intelligence, making the character both terrifying and memorable.
The impact of Jaws on the James Bond series cannot be overstated. His introduction in “The Spy Who Loved Me” marked a new era for the Bond films, as it brought a level of danger and excitement that had not been seen before. Jaws became a symbol of the Bond series, representing the high stakes and the constant threat of danger that Bond faces in his missions.
In conclusion, Richard H. Kiel played Jaws in the James Bond movies, a role that would go on to become one of the most iconic in the film series. Kiel’s portrayal of the shark, combined with the innovative makeup and practical effects, created a character that terrorized audiences and left a lasting impression. Jaws’ introduction in “The Spy Who Loved Me” changed the landscape of the Bond films, setting the stage for the thrilling adventures that would follow.
