Steven Spielberg related how John Williams came to him with his idea for the movie “Jaws”.
He said Williams was really enthusiastic, and was playing it on the piano, the characteristic “BUM BUM BUM BUM BUM” from the theme, looking over his shoulder at Spielberg with a completely expectant face as if he was saying “Do you get it?”
Spielberg was thinking “I don’t get it” but kept listening.
Williams began soft, then began speeding it up, making it louder, and then Spielberg understood.
I respect Williams greatly. Loved his themes, so many of them. Raiders of the Lost Ark, Saving Private Ryan, ET, Superman, Star Wars, Close Encounters, Schindler’s List, so many more...
I have to disagree with the sentiment it all sounds the same. I believe he has made masterful and memorable music.
That little bit probably saved the movie, since the shark never worked. 90% of the time the shark is “there” it’s just the music. But that’s all they needed.