The character of Chevalier is based on Utah based science fiction and fantasy writer Dave Farland, who also writes under the name Dave Wolverton, and who conducts popular novel writing workshops and seminars. The "Yeast Lords" is a take off on his popular and best selling books, The Runelords.
The artwork in the opening credits is by acclaimed fantasy and science fiction artists Kelly Freas and David Lee Anderson.
People on set commented that Jemaine Clement and director Jared Hess bore a striking resemblance, which Clement explained by joking, "I've found directors often hire people who look like them."
Michael Angarano was recommended to Jared Hess by casting director Meredith Tucker, though Hess was unfamiliar with his work. When he watched Snow Angels (2007), Hess was "blown away by his performance ... he embodied what the character need[ed] to be on every level." Snow Angels (2007) also featured Sam Rockwell (Bronco/Brutus).
The indoor movie premier scenes were filmed at The Ritz Theater in Tooele, Utah.