Jaws, the hulking henchman with razor-sharp steel teeth, remains one of the most memorable and iconic villains in the James Bond franchise. He appeared in only two James Bond films, establishing himself as a formidable and surprisingly popular adversary for 007.
A Steel-Toothed Legacy: Jaws’ Appearances in the Bond Universe
Jaws, portrayed by the imposing Richard Kiel, left an indelible mark on the James Bond universe despite only appearing in a relatively small number of films. His imposing stature, coupled with his unique and deadly teeth, made him an instant fan favorite. He wasn’t just another disposable henchman; he possessed a certain charm and resilience that resonated with audiences.
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977): Jaws’ Debut
Jaws made his explosive debut in “The Spy Who Loved Me” (1977), starring Roger Moore as James Bond. In this film, he served as the primary henchman of the villain Karl Stromberg, a shipping magnate bent on destroying the world and establishing a new underwater civilization. His mission was simple: eliminate anyone who stood in Stromberg’s way, and he accomplished this with brutal efficiency and a gleeful disregard for personal safety. The iconic fight scene on the train, where Jaws’ teeth become embedded in the steel roof, solidified his place in Bond history.
Moonraker (1979): A Change of Heart
Jaws returned in “Moonraker” (1979), again with Roger Moore as Bond. Initially serving as the henchman of Hugo Drax, a megalomaniacal industrialist with plans to wipe out humanity and repopulate Earth with a master race, Jaws undergoes a surprising transformation. After falling in love with Dolly, a bespectacled woman he meets on a space station, he experiences a change of heart and ultimately sides with Bond, helping to defeat Drax. This surprising turn added another layer of complexity to the character and cemented his enduring appeal.
Jaws’ Impact and Enduring Popularity
Despite only appearing in two films, Jaws has become synonymous with the James Bond franchise. His imposing figure, memorable teeth, and unexpected redemption arc have made him a beloved character among fans. He represents a unique blend of menace and humor, a combination that contributes to the overall lighthearted tone of the Roger Moore era.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Jaws
These frequently asked questions provide more depth and context regarding Jaws’ role and influence within the James Bond universe.
Q1: Why was Jaws so popular despite being a villain?
Jaws’ popularity stemmed from a combination of factors. His distinctive appearance, his seemingly indestructible nature, and the comedic elements incorporated into his character, particularly in “Moonraker,” made him more than just a generic villain. He possessed a certain charisma that resonated with audiences, even as he was terrorizing 007. His ultimate redemption in “Moonraker” further solidified his status as a fan favorite.
Q2: Was Jaws ever meant to appear in more Bond films?
There were rumors and discussions about including Jaws in subsequent Bond films, but Richard Kiel’s height and scheduling conflicts often presented challenges. However, the character’s popularity likely ensured that the producers at least considered bringing him back. Ultimately, the decision was made to keep his appearances limited to “The Spy Who Loved Me” and “Moonraker.”
Q3: How did Richard Kiel get the role of Jaws?
Richard Kiel was chosen for the role of Jaws primarily due to his imposing height (7′ 1½”) and his distinct physical presence. The producers were looking for someone who could convey both menace and a certain level of vulnerability. Kiel’s audition apparently impressed them, and he was cast despite some initial concerns about the discomfort caused by the metal teeth.
Q4: Were Jaws’ metal teeth real?
No, Jaws’ metal teeth were prosthetic devices. Richard Kiel initially found them extremely uncomfortable to wear, and they limited his ability to speak clearly. In fact, during the filming of “The Spy Who Loved Me,” Kiel could only wear them for short periods. However, the effect was undeniable, contributing significantly to the character’s menacing appearance.
Q5: Did Jaws kill anyone directly onscreen in the Bond films?
Yes, Jaws is responsible for several onscreen deaths throughout his two appearances. In “The Spy Who Loved Me,” he eliminates numerous characters, including a scientist and several secret agents. In “Moonraker,” while initially continuing his destructive path, his focus shifts towards survival and ultimately helping Bond.
Q6: Why did Jaws switch sides in “Moonraker”?
The decision to have Jaws switch sides in “Moonraker” was largely driven by the character’s unexpected popularity in “The Spy Who Loved Me.” The producers recognized that Jaws had become a fan favorite and decided to capitalize on that by giving him a more sympathetic arc. The introduction of Dolly, his love interest, provided the catalyst for his redemption.
Q7: What happened to Jaws after “Moonraker”?
After “Moonraker,” Jaws’ story essentially ends. There have been no official James Bond continuation novels or films that feature the character. He remains a figure firmly planted in the Roger Moore era of Bond films.
Q8: Was there any inspiration for Jaws from previous Bond films or literature?
While there wasn’t a direct counterpart to Jaws in previous Bond films or Ian Fleming’s novels, there’s a clear lineage of imposing and memorable henchmen. Characters like Oddjob from “Goldfinger” and Red Grant from “From Russia With Love” paved the way for villains like Jaws. The idea of a physically dominant and seemingly unstoppable adversary was a recurring theme in the Bond franchise.
Q9: How much did Richard Kiel get paid for his roles as Jaws?
Precise financial details are not publicly available. However, given the success of both films and the prominence of his role, it is likely Richard Kiel received substantial compensation for his work. His initial fee for “The Spy Who Loved Me” was reportedly modest, but his leverage likely increased significantly for “Moonraker” due to the character’s popularity.
Q10: What are some of Jaws’ most memorable quotes or moments?
While Jaws doesn’t speak much, his visual presence is his most powerful form of communication. His attempts to bite through steel cables, his struggles with the magnetic crane in “The Spy Who Loved Me,” and his romantic encounter with Dolly in “Moonraker” are all iconic moments. The sound of his metal teeth clanking together is also instantly recognizable.
Q11: How does Jaws compare to other Bond villains?
Jaws stands out from other Bond villains due to his unique physical characteristics and his surprising redemption arc. While many Bond villains are suave, sophisticated, and driven by elaborate schemes, Jaws is a brute force of nature. His simplicity and raw power, combined with the comedic elements introduced in “Moonraker,” differentiate him from the more traditional Bond antagonists.
Q12: Is Jaws considered a good or bad addition to the James Bond franchise?
The consensus among fans and critics is that Jaws was a highly successful addition to the James Bond franchise. While some purists might argue that he veered too far into comedic territory, his popularity and enduring legacy cannot be denied. He represents a pivotal moment in the Roger Moore era, showcasing the franchise’s willingness to embrace a more lighthearted and fantastical tone. His two appearances remain highly entertaining and memorable, solidifying his place as one of the most iconic Bond villains of all time.