Dispute Over Viking Ship Repairs
Universal Pictures has denied claims that it failed to pay for repairs to a Viking ship used during the filming of Christopher Nolan's upcoming film The Odyssey. The studio issued a statement asserting that all invoices related to the vessel had already been settled.
According to Universal, 'Our records show that all invoices relating to the Glad av Gillberga were paid in full, including repairs. The studio and the production have contacted the association to clear up any misunderstanding.'
Background of the Conflict
The dispute centers on the Glad av Gillberga, a replica Viking ship rented to the production by the Swedish non-profit Värmland Vikingaleden Association. The association's chairman, Peter Olausson, claimed Universal paid only the rental fee and did not cover the costs of repairing wear and tear sustained during filming.
Olausson stated that the repairs would cost approximately $6,000. He criticized the studio, arguing that the amount was insignificant compared with the film's reported $264.1 million opening weekend box office earnings. He also expressed hope that the issue was simply an oversight but claimed he had not received a response after sending several emails to Universal.
Universal's Position
Universal, however, maintains that all payments, including repair costs, have already been made. The studio said it has contacted the association to resolve what it described as a misunderstanding. The production company emphasized their commitment to fulfilling contractual obligations and expressed willingness to clarify any confusion.
