Since the release of Steven Spielberg’s iconic horror film “Jaws” in 1975, sharks have become a staple of pop culture. However, it’s time for a new toothy menace to dominate the big screen. Enter the megalodon, a prehistoric shark species that was over three times the size of a modern great white. The recent films “The Meg” and “The Black Demon” have brought this massive predator to life, with “Meg 2: The Trench” hitting theaters this week.
According to Steve Alten, author of the book that inspired the “Meg” franchise, the appeal of the megalodon lies in its fear factor. A 60-foot megalodon swimming by your boat is far more terrifying than a 15-foot great white. “Bigger is better, especially when bigger can eat you whole as opposed to taking bites out of you,” Alten explains.
In “Meg 2,” star Jason Statham returns as rescue diver Jonas Taylor, facing three megalodons and other colossal sea creatures. Director Ben Wheatley aimed to create a fun and enjoyable movie that wasn’t cynical or depressing, inspired by the original shark film, “Jaws.”
Contrary to the “Meg 2” trailer, megalodons did not coexist with dinosaurs. These massive sharks lived between 23 to 26 million years ago, while dinosaurs went extinct 65 million years ago. Paleontologists have faced challenges in studying megalodons due to the lack of complete skeletons, relying mainly on their teeth. However, research has shown that megalodons lived in an ocean teeming with diverse marine mammals, including whales and great white sharks.
The megalodon’s extinction, approximately three million years ago, was likely due to its large size. These apex predators required an immense amount of food to sustain their metabolic rate. Additionally, changing ocean conditions and prey availability contributed to their demise.
While speculation remains about the possible existence of megalodons, scientists believe they are extinct. Even if they were still around, experts like Sora Kim suggest that their behavior would likely resemble that of a large Orca, rather than the exaggerated portrayals seen in Hollywood.
Despite their portrayal as menacing creatures, sharks deserve respect and conservation efforts. Activists have been working to raise awareness about the importance of protecting sharks. Alten emphasizes that sharks are not the enemy and that harming them only harms ourselves. The fictional nature of the megalodon in movies like “Meg 2” allows viewers to appreciate the thrill without endangering real sharks.
Ultimately, the fictional action-packed adventures involving megalodons provide an opportunity to engage audiences in the world of sharks and science. While not entirely realistic, these films can help generate excitement and interest in these fascinating creatures.
