A traditional Viking ship replica used in the production of Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster film Odyssey has sparked a financial dispute after being returned to its owners severely damaged, according to reports in The New York Times. Värmlands Viking Center, a small historical tourist site in central Sweden, is demanding $6,000 for repairs and equipment replacements, while the film’s production company, Universal Pictures, maintains that all financial obligations have already been settled.
How a Small Swedish Viking Center Landed a Hollywood Prop Deal
In late 2024, representatives from a Universal subsidiary approached the Värmlands Viking Center to lease a traditional replica vessel for a project tentatively titled Charlie’s Tale, as reported by The New York Times. For the rural historical attraction, participating in a major Hollywood production presented an unexpected opportunity. The ship in question, named Glad av Gillberga, measures approximately 18 meters long and was constructed in 1998 by local Viking enthusiasts using traditional methods. Ordinarily, the center utilizes the vessel for student programs and visitor tours.
According to contract documents reviewed by The New York Times, the production company agreed to return the watercraft in good condition, bearing responsibility for any damage outside of normal wear and tear.
The Damage Report and the $6,000 Repair Bill
Following filming on location in the Mediterranean Sea, the vessel returned to Sweden showing significant structural wear. Värmlands Viking Center board chairman Peter Olausson, 70, detailed that the ship sustained hull cracks, required rigging and rope replacements, and needed urgent repainting. With the help of local volunteers, Olausson oversaw the restoration work and sent a $6,000 invoice covering material costs to the film’s marine coordinator in December.
Did you know?
The Glad av Gillberga was originally built in 1998 by local Swedish enthusiasts using authentic, historical methods rather than modern industrial techniques.
“We initially asked for $9,000, but lowered the amount to $6,000 so it could be resolved quickly before Christmas, yet we haven’t received the money,” Olausson told The New York Times, adding that the vessel’s prolonged repair schedule delayed summer operations and cut into the center’s seasonal revenue.
Universal Pictures Responds to the Damage Claims
Universal Pictures disputes the unpaid repair claims put forward by the Swedish association. A Universal spokesperson stated in an official comment that company records indicate all invoices, including those related to the vessel’s repairs, have been paid in full. The studio also noted that representatives have reached out to the Viking Center association to resolve any remaining misunderstandings.
Despite the administrative dispute over repair costs, Olausson shared that he visited a Stockholm theater to watch the finished film, which grossed an estimated $264.1 million during its opening weekend. Spotting his organization’s vessel during the opening sequence—where Odysseus’ fleet returns home after the Trojan War—provided a rewarding moment for the local builder. “You can’t see the fine details, but I thought, ‘Oh, look, there’s my ship Glad!’ and I was happy,” Olausson said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What film featured the rented Viking ship?
The vessel was used in the production of Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster film Odyssey, which was distributed by Universal Pictures.
How much money is the Värmlands Viking Center claiming for damages?
According to The New York Times, the center is asking for $6,000 to cover material and repair costs after the ship returned from Mediterranean filming with hull cracks and worn rigging.
Has Universal Pictures responded to the invoice?
Yes. Universal stated that company records show all invoice amounts, including vessel repairs, have been paid in full, and the studio has contacted the association to clear up the matter.
Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on how major Hollywood studios handle prop rentals from small historical organizations? Share your perspective in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on film production behind-the-scenes stories.
Related reading