A payment dispute has emerged between a Swedish non-profit organisation and Universal Studios over a replica Viking ship used in the recently released Christopher Nolan blockbuster film «The Odyssey.»
The Varmlands Vikingacenter alleges that the film studio failed to cover a $6,000 repair bill after returning its 17.5-metre vessel with a cracked hull. The ship, known as Glad av Gillberga, also required a fresh coat of paint and replacement parts for its rigging following the demanding production shoot.
Universal rented the ship in late 2024 for the project, which was initially codenamed «Charlie’s Tale.» The vessel appeared as a prominent escort boat in the film’s massive flotilla scenes. Nolan, a director famous for eschewing computer-generated imagery in favour of practical effects, deliberately sought out authentic physical props for the sweeping maritime sequences.
While the centre confirmed receiving the $41,000 rental fee, representatives stated the separate repair invoice for material costs remains unsettled. The organisation pointed out that it did not charge the studio for the extensive labour required to fix the historic replica.
Conflicting claims and summer cancellations
The structural damage has effectively grounded Glad av Gillberga for the current summer tourist season, delivering a major financial blow to the local heritage site. Located in the picturesque province of Värmland in western Sweden, the centre relies on the ship to draw visitors to the region’s dense network of lakes and historical landmarks.
Constructed in 1998 using traditional maritime methods, the replica warship typically serves as a floating museum that hosts school groups and history enthusiasts. Before «The Odyssey» shoot, it possessed a robust sailing record that included long-haul voyages across the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
According to the original rental agreement, the production team promised to return the vessel in good condition and cover any injuries beyond reasonable wear and tear. Universal firmly disputes the non-profit’s version of the financial timeline. A studio spokesperson stated that their accounting records indicate all invoices related to the Glad av Gillberga were paid in full, adding that production representatives reached out to the association to clear up the alleged misunderstanding.
Peter Olausson, chair of the Varmlands Vikingacenter, remains optimistic about reaching a mutually beneficial resolution. He noted that the two parties are in active dialogue to settle the outstanding repair costs.
A history of cinematic prop damage
The relatively minor financial disagreement contrasts sharply with the film’s massive commercial success. «The Odyssey» grossed more than $264 mln globally during its opening weekend in July, dominating the international box office.
However, the incident highlights a recurring issue where Hollywood productions inadvertently destroy valuable loaned items. A notorious example occurred during the filming of Quentin Tarantino’s 2015 western «The Hateful Eight.»
Actor Kurt Russell mistakenly smashed an authentic 150-year-old Martin guitar loaned by the Martin Guitar Museum after a miscommunication on set. He was unaware the crew had not yet swapped the antique for a cheap replica. The priceless instrument was destroyed beyond repair, prompting the museum to institute a strict policy against ever lending historical artefacts to film sets again.
While Glad av Gillberga avoided complete destruction, the Varmlands Vikingacenter now faces a challenging road to get the beloved vessel seaworthy once more.
