Diving into the Depths: The Cinematic Odyssey of Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3 with Director David Worth

Embark on a thrilling journey into the world of underwater suspense and over-the-top shark encounters as we dive deep into the cinematic realm of Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3: Megalodon. Join us for an exclusive conversation with the mastermind behind these cult classics, director David Worth. From unemployment to battling animatronic sharks, David Worth shares the untold stories and unexpected twists that shaped these iconic films. Get ready for a behind-the-scenes adventure into the making of these shark-infested epics!

So, David, what inspired you to direct the Shark Attack series, particularly Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3: Megalodon?

Well, it all started with unemployment, and then the late great producer at Nu Image, Danny Lerner, gave me a call for a meeting. The moment I walked into the office, he slapped the script for Shark Attack 2 on the desk and asked, “Do you want to go to South Africa and direct this film?” You can probably guess my immediate answer…

Creating intense and thrilling shark attack scenes must have been a challenge. How did you approach it for both movies?

The original Shark Attack was frankly terrible because nobody knew how to do a proper shark attack. But I did. How? I had worked with the outstanding 2nd Unit Director Glenn Randall on Remo Williams. I saw the elements he used to make a Doberman attack work. Before heading to Cape Town, I spent weeks studying shark attack stock footage, piecing together all the necessary elements. In Cape Town, with the help of Do Productions, we created dummy sharks, fins, and biting heads. Combining all these elements in the editing suite, the rest is history.

Filming underwater sequences for Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3: Megalodon must have had its challenges. What were the biggest hurdles you faced?

The main challenge was leaving sunny South Africa for the cold winter of Bulgaria. Plus, we had to deal with an inept “shark fabricator” in Bulgaria, whose animatronic shark was laughable. I had to devise a method for the underwater camera operator to constantly move the camera when covering the animatronic shark. Also, all my actors had to get scuba qualified, and they did an amazing, even heroic job, especially Nakita Ager.

The Megalodon is a fascinating prehistoric shark. What motivated you to incorporate this monstrous creature into Shark Attack 3?

I saw a poster for Shark Attack 3: Megalodon at Nu Image Offices, and when I heard nothing was happening with the project, I decided to make something happen. Without any deal in place, I had Nu Image give me an assistant editor, went through stock footage, polished the script, and finally got the green light. Casting Jenny McShane from the original Shark Attack and the outstanding actor John Barrowman, we willed the film into production.

How did you ensure the portrayal of the Megalodon was as accurate as possible?

The internet provided tons of information and pictures of the jaws and teeth of the Megalodon. All readily available for research.

Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3 have gained a cult following for their over-the-top and entertaining moments. Were these elements intentionally added?

Some were intentional, but most were not. They evolved during the filmmaking process, influenced by both casting choices and the attempt to create a thrilling shark attack movie.

Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3 have become synonymous with the “so bad, it’s good” genre. How do you feel about the movies being embraced by fans in this unique way?

However anyone finds, gets, or appreciates any of my films is totally fine by me.

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments or anecdotes from the production of Shark Attack 2 and Shark Attack 3?

Absolutely! One night, as we were wrapping, John Barrowman asked for one more take. He looked deep into Jenny McShane’s eyes and said, “…Why don’t I take you home and eat your pussy!” I couldn’t stop laughing, and I decided to put it in the film. The “Powers that be” never demanded its removal, and Johnny B’s improvisation is there for everyone to enjoy forever!

If you had the opportunity to revisit the Shark Attack series today, what aspects would you approach differently, if any, and why?

Please, for the love of cinema, be able to afford CGI sharks! Please!

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