Completely filmed using a hand held JVC MiniDV camcorder.
During the filming of Calvin's sub-conscious, smoke was created to create atmosphere and to drive away any insects. On one occasion, the smoke inducers caught fire and nearly caught nearby brush and trees on fire. On a separate occasion, the cast was completely engulfed in smoke and had to flee for fresh air.
The premiere for Elysium was on the second floor of an Ann Arbor child care center. At night, the center transforms into a local professional theatre, Blackbird Theatre. Laurie Atwood, the writer/director's mother, owns the building and runs the daycare. Barton Bund, who stars in this film, owns and runs the Blackbird Theatre.
Pre-production took 2 years. Post-production took 3 months. Principle photography took just 3 days.
Pre-production for Elysium began in the summer of 2006. The film was cast and recast 5 different times and was finally released in December of 2008.