Sam Suchmann and Mattie Zufelt, both of whom have
Down syndrome, met at the
Special Olympics. Sam's older brother, Jesse, said their families initially viewed the friends' enthusiasm for a film as a phase the two would eventually outgrow. When they did not, Jesse investigated further, finding that they had written a notebook full of scenes, including storyboards. Jesse initially considered shooting the film do-it-yourself style but was impressed enough with their work that he took the film to
Kickstarter, where it received $68,000 in funding. Taking the position of producer, Jesse brought in director Bobby Carnevale, whom he had been friends with in high school. Filming took place over 16 days in Providence, Rhode Island. The Kickstarter campaign and resulting publicity resulted in increased interest in the film, and industry veterans like
Farrelly brothers visited the set.
Pauly D, a hero to Mattie, accepted a cameo role after the friends insisted that he be approached. A sequel is planned. == Release ==