Contributions from James McMahon | Little White Lies

Contributor James McMahon

A man with greying facial hair and a contemplative expression, staring intently.

The real-life tragedy that inspired Jaws’ most famous scene

by James McMahon

Quint’s show-stopping monologue recounts the doomed tale of the USS Indianapolis – but it isn’t entirely accurate.
Two men in military uniform standing in front of an aircraft.

What has cinema taught us about Area 51?

by James McMahon

From Independence Day to Zero Dark Thirty, the movies have fuelled our fascination with this top-secret military facility.
Wooden cabin in forest, with green roof; yellow brick path leading through trees and undergrowth.

Unpacking the myth of The Wizard of Oz’s hanging Munchkin

by James McMahon

Did a member of the supporting cast really commit suicide on the set of MGM’s classic musical?
Large grey shark swimming in blue water, with green plants in the foreground.

The insane story of Zombi 2’s notorious shark fight scene

by James McMahon

How fearless stuntwork and a load of tranquillisers created one of the craziest moments in horror history.
Three people in Halloween costumes, including a man holding a book titled "13 Ghosts".
In Praise Of

In praise of William Castle – undisputed king of cinema gimmickry

by James McMahon

A pioneer of 4D screenings, the American B‑movie director was a born showman.