Key Takeaways
- Swedish nonprofit claims $6,000 repair bill for damaged replica.
- Glad av Gillberga has sailed the North Sea and Baltic, even reaching Canada.
- Universal Pictures made $264m on film’s opening weekend but has not paid.
The owners of a Viking longship replica used in the Hollywood blockbuster The Odyssey have accused Universal Pictures of failing to pay for repairs to the damaged vessel. In a statement, the Swedish nonprofit organization that owns the ship, Glad av Gillberga, said they feel 'forgotten' after the film-makers returned it in a state requiring significant restoration.
Based on a wreck from around 1040 found in Denmark’s Roskilde fjord, the warship has had an impressive history. Over nearly three decades at sea, Glad av Gillberga has sailed through the North Sea and Baltic regions, even making its way to Canada. The ship's journey reflects its historical significance and enduring legacy.
However, the nonprofit organization now faces a financial burden as they seek to repair the vessel following its use in the film. They estimate that the cost of repairs is approximately $6,000, which Universal Pictures has yet to cover despite the significant commercial success of The Odyssey.
The film, released in 2023, grossed over $264 million during its opening weekend alone, according to box office reports. Despite this financial windfall for the studio, Universal Pictures has not provided any compensation for the damage sustained by Glad av Gillberga.
In a statement, the owners of the ship expressed their frustration: 'We have been working hard to keep this historical treasure in good condition and now we are facing unexpected costs due to the film’s production. We hope that Universal Pictures will take responsibility for these expenses.'
The nonprofit organization has called on Universal Pictures to address the issue promptly, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage. They argue that while the studio may have profited from their vessel's use, they should also contribute towards its maintenance and restoration.
Glad av Gillberga’s journey is a testament to its historical significance and the challenges faced by organizations dedicated to preserving such artifacts. The current situation highlights the often-overlooked costs associated with film productions that utilize unique and valuable assets.
