The Steven Spielberg you know now is like a Titan. He funds blockbusters left and right and gives young directors (Michael Bay) a chance to make it big. He’s nominated for Best Director almost every time he makes a movie (except for War Horse, that was baad).

It wasn’t always this way. Back in 1975 Spielberg was a young up-and-comer who had just directed Jaws, which went on to gross over $500 million and become one of the highest grossing films ever. You can watch as Spielberg and his friends watch the nominations. Spielberg watches as Jaws gets a Best Picture nod but he does not get a Best Director nod. Spielberg is not happy.

The young Spielberg was hungry and wanted it bad, you can see it. He didn’t and he’s upset. He later goes on to bash the Academy and says that because Jaws made so much money they didn’t want to honor the film like they should have. It’s an amazing slice of history. Above, watch the entire clip. Below, watch friend Joe Spinelli recall the moment. [via Movies.com]

jaws, oscars, steven spielberg