miamigorocks Geoff said:

"With respect Steve, 99% of us know bugger all about the world of film making."

Having worked in TV and Film for 30 years as a soundie, maybe I can be of some assistance.

Making a feature films is a very expensive undertaking. No production has unlimited funds (even Hollywood), the Producers are a hard nosed breed who are not a charity. Many low budget movies are 'calling cards' made by Directors to be spotted by bigger fish in the pond and so further their careers.

Peter Moore may feel a bit put out that the Ross is not the key 'Prop', because that's in effect is all it is. As already alluded to, the Production team are more likely to use a working, maritime certificated vessel than a hulk.Their insurers would probably demand that, the Producer is ultimately responsible to the Health and Safety Excutive.

The boat would probably only used for exteriors anyway. As long as the Designer can make it look authentic that's all that matters. Of course the ships interiors will be shot on a sound stage. Everything is under control, light, noise,weather. The shots aren't compromised by immovable bulkheads . Think 'Das Boot', the U- Boat interiors all flew apart as the camera hurtled down the interior of the sub. The key point is, time is money, you don't wan't to wait a morning while the camera, dolly etc. is manhandled up and down gangways.

If the 'Ross' was used as a blueprint then they should have received a facility fee, if not somebody can't negotiate. If they got something out of the project then good for them.

Ultimately it's pretend, a yarn – not a history of offshore radio. If it was being made soley for anoraks it would bomb. It probably will anyway, look out for it on Film 4 late one night.