The film is based on a stage play first produced in 1996 by Pacific Theatre in Vancouver, British Columbia. The play's US Premiere was at the Victory Theatre in Los Angeles. In 1998, the play was adapted and expanded into a novel.
The role of the Manager of Security was written specifically for Chopper Bernet.
Clancy Brown was cast as The Reverend but became unavailable to play the part and it was decided that the role would be cut. At the last minute, however, his schedule changed and the scenes were filmed and included.