The script was in development since 2006 before being shelved entirely in 2008. It was revived in 2011 after Dominick Aznavour watched 'Project: Elysium,' and wanted to work with director Devon Newberry again.
Kevin Herrera was set to cameo in the film, but scheduling conflicts prevented his scene from being shot.
After 'Project: Elysium,' director Devon Newberry wanted to make something "smaller, and more intimate," leading him to revisit 'Phynes' after it had been canceled so many times. He wanted as tight of a budget as possible too, to create an "indie drama" feel.
Suzanne Kemp was cast as Phynes' landlord two days before production on the film began.
Zoe Winter was originally cast in 'Project: Elysium' before a scheduling conflict forced her to drop out. She was cast in 'Phynes' after Devon Newberry discovered she was available to play Beth in this film.
Andrew Baron-Vartian, Stone Newberry, Bryndon Newberry, Kristen Koskella: Producer as the opening home-owner that Scott is talking too. The film's director's father and brother cameo as the other two 'customers' Scott tries to sell magazines to, with makeup artist Koskella providing the voice for the customer the audience doesn't see.