Summary
Its been nearly 50 years since the release ofSteven Spielbergs groundbreaking epic,Jaws.
On the surface,12 Days of Terroris one such film.
However,the picture stands out for one solid reason:Its based on a true story.
Image via Discover Channel
Detailing the infamous New Jersey shark attacks, the made-for-TV B-movie recounts the brutal attacks rather accurately.
Local lifeguard Alex Trednot struggles to convince authorities to end the beaches as the attacks escalate.
The film portrays the community’s efforts to deal with the crisis and the eventual capture of the shark.
12 Days of Terror is based on the true events of the 1916 Jersey Shore shark attacks. For twelve days in July, a juvenile great white shark terrorized the waters of New Jersey, attacking and killing several beachgoers. Local lifeguard Alex Trednot struggles to convince authorities to close the beaches as the attacks escalate. The film portrays the community’s efforts to deal with the crisis and the eventual capture of the shark.
Among them is Charles Vansant (Karl Thaning).
While enjoying a late-day swim,Charles is attacked by an unseen force.
Alex and four other lifeguards spring to action, pulling Charles from the water.
His leg is badly injured, and, due to blood loss, he tragically passes away.
The execution of the attack is not only bloody but accurate.
Danny seems to be based on a 27-year-old man namedCharles Bruder, who was the second shark attack victim.
A killer shark was only part of the problem.
Theres no doubt that12 Days of Terrorwent above and beyond to honor the victims of the Matawan attacks.
However, the movie was also aware that it would need to build a more connected plot.
If Vaughns excuse was weak, its hard not to see Perillos as laughable.
Alex finds an ally in Cap, a local seaman.
The film also presents the shark as a Great White.
The film, however, definitively presents it as a Great White.
All that said,12 Days of Terrorgoes from being inspired byJawstoa full-fledged rip-offduring the finale.
12 Days of Terrorcertainly did its best to honor the victims of the 1916 New Jersey shark attacks.
Image Via Animal Planet
12 Days of Terroris available for purchase on DVD through Amazon.
