10 Most Stupid Characters In Classic Horror Movies

10. Jaws - Mayor Larry Vaughn

Mayor Larry Vaughn has a big problem in the movie Jaws: how do you balance the safety of your constituents with the need to generate income? That's not an easy question to answer, and it's compounded by the fact that there's a gigantic shark eating people around Amity Island.

When the first victim is found, it's clear that a large predator is stalking the beachgoers in the area, which creates a panic. After all, most people aren't going to want to set foot in the water if doing so means being torn to shreds, only to then be pooped out later by a big fish.

Mayor Vaughn finds himself being advised by a world-renowned shark expert and the chief of police, who tells him that he should absolutely not reopen the beaches. The advice falls on deaf ears, and the Mayor goes on television to let people know they have nothing to fear.

There was ample evidence of a terrible threat to constituents, but the Mayor simply doesn't listen, and five people (plus one unfortunate dog) die as a result. His actions are stupid, to say the least, but also flagrantly indifferent to the safety and health of his community.