Director Michael Feifer has made it clear that he chose to fictionalize and not make a straight biopic about Dennis Rader, mostly because, at the time of filming, Rader had only recently confessed to his crimes, and Feifer was uncomfortable with portraying Rader's family and the actual deaths of his victims. Actor Kane Hodder adds that it's meant to be a character study.
Anna Margaret and Lily Mae Silverstein's debut.
In the opening credits, the word "kwaj" can be seen written in large, black capital letters. This is meant as a nod to the Pacific island of Kwajalein where Kane Hodder grew up.
Kane Hodder shaved his eyebrows to look more like the real Dennis L. Rader, but decided against also shaving the top of his head.
Kane Hodder states in the commentary that he listens to sad music on his iPod to inspire him to tears for emotional scenes.