List of Shark Movies: Best of All Time

Developing a list of shark movies is challenging given that the number of films that have a theme predominantly centered on sharks is somewhat modest. The reality is the number of movies that would qualify is very small. It would likely be a list of Jaws movies and a couple others! However, exploring the best shark films by including those that incorporate these feared creatures of the sea in some significant way can be more effectively managed.

Rather than ranking the best shark movies, this is a list of shark films that have a shark theme or that incorporate sharks into a good movie. The list includes those movies that do have a heavy emphasis on sharks, with information provided on the top shark movies, and other titles added for you to explore.

It is not enough just to have movies about sharks, the film must also have entertainment value. This probably means it is either scary, dramatic, action-packed, and potentially humorous.

List of Shark Movies

Jaws (1975), Jaws 2 (1978), Jaws 3 (1983), Jaws: The Revenge (1987), Jaws 5: Cruel Jaws (1995) – There is almost no questioning that the Jaws movies rank as the top shark movies of all time. Written by Peter Benchley, this series that spanned 20 years terrified viewers with its “easy to imagine” plots and its famously creeping theme song. The original Jaws movie is widely credited as being “the best”, perhaps largely because it was the only one directed by Steven Spielberg. While it certainly offers the unique introduction to the frightening character, Jaws 3 actually features a notable cast including Dennis Quaid, Louis Gossett Jr., and Lea Thompson.

Deep Blue Sea (1999) – Perhaps second fiddle to the Jaws movies, Deep Blue sea is a nice and creepy water-based horror film led by a cast that includes: Thomas Jane, Saffron Burrows, LL Cool J, Michael Rapaport, Stellan Skarsgard, and Samuel L. Jackson.

Peter Benchley’s Creature (1998) – Authored by the famous writer of the Jaws movies, Creature was a 1998 made for TV movie that received much publicity leading up to its original airing. The film about a shark-like monster that terrorizes a secret abandoned military base stars Craig T. Nelson and Sex in the City’s Kim Cattrall.

Open Water (2003) – What makes this shark movie especially terrifying is that it is based on the true story of two scuba divers accidentally stranded in shark infested waters after their tour boat has left.

Red Water (2003) – Another made for TV shark film, this one is a story about a freshwater shark along the Louisiana River. It stars Lou Diamond Phillips, Kristy Swanson, and Coolio.

Shark Tale (2004) – A slightly different perspective on shark movies, this animated adventure is a bit on the lighter side. It features an amazing collection of voice talent that includes: Will Smith, Robert DeNiro, Renee Zelweger, Angelina Jolie, and Jack Black.

Other movies about sharks that you might check out
Great White (1998), Shark Attack (1999), Dark Waters (2003)

Have other favorites to add to this list of shark movies? Feel free to add a comment and let us know about other movies with sharks.

Feature on best shark movies written by Neil of Movie Room Reviews

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