Before 1975, the summer was considered a 'dumping ground' for films, as studios believed audiences preferred being outdoors rather than in theaters. Steven Spielberg’s 'Jaws' changed that forever. Universal Pictures utilized a then-unprecedented marketing strategy: wide release. Instead of opening in a few theaters and slowly expanding, 'Jaws' opened in 464 theaters simultaneously, supported by a massive television advertising campaign. The film's terrifying premise and 'event' feel drew massive crowds, making it the first film to earn $100 million at the box office. This success created the blueprint for the 'summer blockbuster'—high-concept, big-budget films released during vacation months. 'Jaws' also popularized the 'merchandising tie-in' model, proving that a movie could be more than just a film; it could be a cultural phenomenon that dominated an entire season.