The whale removal scene bares striking similarity to a 1970 real life event that saw a local government in the USA (Oregon state Highway Department) attempt to remove a whale carcass by blowing it up with dynamite, which sent rancid chunks of whale raining down on spectators (also caught on camera).
Originally there were five families in the script, until actor Guy Pearce pointed out that so many characters were just too confusing. The final script settles on three families to base the story around.
Julian McMahon was once married to Kylie Minogue's younger sister, Dannii Minogue.
Julian McMahon is the son of the former Australian Prime Minister, Sir William McMahon.
The film is a largely autobiographical of director Stephan Elliott's years growing up and shooting often dangerous "movies" with his friends and neighbor'. Melly is based on Elliot's longtime friend and costume designer, Lizzy Gardiner and their relationship growing up together.
The bedroom scene in the film bought back a lot of awkward memories for Elliot, who had to take a few breaks while shooting it. In interviews he stated he lost a night's sleep with all the memories it awakened.
He did however point out that Bec is not based on his own sister but one of his neighbor's. His own sister he reiterated was quite "dull and ordinary" growing up.
Some of his memories and "secrets" were still kept from the film so as not to upset his family and friends saying some of it was just "too dark".