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."
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.
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).
When Benjamin's mom holds up the bag of country balls, she holds it with one hand. When the camera changes to Benjamin, she is holding the bag with two hands.
When Chevalier opens "Yeast Lords," the audience hears the second part of the story as though he's reading it, even though it's obvious that he has opened to the first page.
Tabatha: Well, you know, like all great writers, you're going to have to go through a lot of crap. But someday, you're junk will be seen by all, and it will be awesome.
Brutus: Cyclops there, cyclops there, cyclops there, turrets, moon buggies. Oh my holy crap! Surveillance does. I hate those. This is ridiculous. That's the most well-guarded yeast factory I've ever seen.