 When it came to filming the rat scene, the producers inquired of  their insurer, Firemans Fund, whether they were insured if the  animals were for some reason indisposed, due to illness, an  accident, or simply because they refused to perform. This was a  delicate issue, as one lost day of filming can cost hundreds of  thousands of dollars, yet the experts at Firemans Fund were able to  reach a compromise which pleased both sides. They asked the director  what would be the least number of rats needed for a dramatic shot.  If different camera angles were used, 1,000 rats would probably be  sufficient, came the answer. Thus Firemans Fund underwrote the  worlds first insurance policy with a 1,000