the production did not appoint a casting director for the film, instead relying on independent talent agents to help cast the roles. according to director schmoeller, $50,000 of the film's budget was dedicated to salary for the lead actor portraying the villain mr. slausen. the role was offered to several older hollywood actors, such as jack palance and gig young, but both turned the project down. chuck connors, who was the production crew's third choice for the role, accepted the role.