Complete with a mechanical shark, underwater footage already shot in Australia and many dollars for the Island’s spring and summer economy, a film crew from Universal Studios will shoot a movie on the Island between late April and July. The story of a rampaging great white shark terrorizing a seaside resort, the film will be directed by Stephen Stielberg, whom producer William Gilmore calls “One of the most talented bright young (26) directors in America”.

Robert J. Carroll, president of the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce, and Edgartown hotel owner, said the final arrangements with the filmmakers should be made next week, when a scouting crew studies locations around the Island.

Daniel Hull, executive secretary of the Chamber of Commerce, was pleased at the prospect of the extra 75 people who will be eating, sleeping and buying sunglasses on the Vineyard for two and one-half months. He said he thought most of the shooting would be done in Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Menemsha and Vineyard Haven.

Mr. Gilmore said: “Ninety per cent of the film will be shot on the Vineyard We will be looking to use Islanders in many parts, both extra and speaking roles.” The casting auditions began this week.

Peter Benchley wrote the film’s script from his own recently-published novel, Jaws. The novel ­— his first — made a considerable splash on the publishing scene well before its Feb. 1 publication date, and it has since appeared on a few bestseller lists. In fact, deals for the film rights (bought by Universal for $150,000_ and his spot as scenarist (for $25,000) were wrapped up months ago.

“We hope we’ll be welcome on the Vineyard, and we plan to take care in being good visitors and guests,” Mr. Gilmore said.