Review: Jaws in Concert, Colston Hall

A packed audience went from laughter to jumping in their seats during Jaws in Concert, which consisted of the legendary film being accompanied by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra.

It really was a memorable night with a difference as we all waited expectantly for the film to start on a large screen hung above the orchestra. As soon as the orchestra started up, you could see a sea of smiling faces as the crowd enjoyed the classic Jaws theme tune coming from an array of musical instruments.

Most of the crowd appeared to be in their late 30s and upwards (which makes sense considering the first Jaws film came out in the mid-1970s) and many people could be overheard saying they had not seen this classic movie since they were kids.

But what many of us hadn’t bargained for was how very funny Jaws was – whether it intended to be or not, this movie really is hilarious on so many levels (and in a good iconic way). There was a massive cheer when the famous line “You’re gonna need a bigger boat” was uttered by the Chief of Police Martin Brody (Roy Scheider).

The orchestra were so impressive to watch, but it’s amazing how you end up almost forgetting they are there once you get into the plot of this movie; they have gained a position among both Czech and Europe’s top symphonic ensembles. The Conductor/Artistic Director Ben Palmer flawlessly controlled the large group of musicians from his stand at the centre of the stage and made it all look so slick and easy. They have toured all over the world and  have accompanied several pop artists during their shows – including Sting and George Michael.

As we followed the famous storyline of a man-eating great white shark, we saw how it caused monumental havoc in a fictional New England seaside town. John Williams was behind the original Academy Award-winning score and it’s easy to see how this film was the most successful movie of all time (until the release of Star Wars two years later) because it grips you from start to finish.

After an interval which allowed us all to stretch our legs, use the facilities and get a drink, we returned to the part of the film in which three characters set out to kill this beast once and for all. Even though most of us remember the outcome and how the plot goes, it didn’t dampen the suspense that we all felt as the film came to a climax.

As the credits were played out by the outstanding orchestra, there was huge and appreciative applause. When Ben Palmer led his team to take their individual bows, the cheers escalated.

This fabulous evening was part of the Colston’s Hall Spielberg Season (which included the recent Raiders of the Lost Ark and forthcoming Jurassic Park). For a night with a difference, be sure to book your tickets fast for the next one.