In order to create the set for Oceanus: Act One, taking chances was inevitable. As an independent film company, FutureDude Entertainment stretched its low-budget into an incredibly high-quality film. The set was strategically designed around the budget and was comprised of multiple parts, including the AquaShuttle and the Docking Tube (which also doubled for the Whale Communications Pod)—which was placed on top of the submarine set. 

Because the set was assembled on the stage floor at Hydraulx in Playa del Rey, California, it was paramount that the assembly go without a hitch. However, the challenges were significant when the time came for the team actually put the parts together. The tube, designed by George Maya and constructed by the team at The Red Truck, was made of wood and weighed in around 500 lbs. Although the final tube looked amazing, its weight posed a huge risk. In order to move the tube, a scaffolding went through the center as leverage to lift to immense weight. Two forklifts carefully moved in-sync, attempting to keep the balance of the weight evenly as it got closer to the sub.

This weight of the tube posed a threat to the structure of the AquaShuttle itself. The team watched the nerve-racking process, as the tube was gently placed on top of the sub. Incredibly, the crew successfully completed the set assembly without any harm to the AquaShuttle. The final set was safe and looked very convincing on camera!