The action figures that Omri places in the cupboard include Darth Vader from Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977), the T-Rex from Jurassic Park (1993), a Ferengi from Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987), a Cardassian soldier from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993), a G.I. Joe, and RoboCop (1987).
Steve Coogan plays a small figure character in this film. He will later appear in the Night at the Museum franchise as a small figure that also magically comes to life.
On the DVD commentary, Frank Oz stated he was reluctant to direct this movie, as he doesn't think he's a children's director.