A key investor and a Cinematographer both backed out of the film only days before the first day of production for unknown reasons. The Director decided not to cancel the shoot and move forward with the film taking on the extra responsibilities.
The Director was only allowed access to most of the locations in the film on the day of the shoot causing him to plan his shots generally and adjust on once on set.
Hongo was filmed over 15 days in November and December. During the night scene in the woods, Hannah Wright's character states she is cold which is genuine due to the 40 degree temperature.
The director plays the role of "Wayne" in the film due to an actor not showing the day of production. During the scene where all of the captives are revealed, Wayne is shown the least because the director is also the cinematographer of the film. During takes where the director was on camera, Larry Triplett who is cast as Speciman #1 and lead actor, Everett Anderson assisted by operating the camera.