Synopsis: A scheming raccoon fools a mismatched family of forest creatures into helping him repay a debt of food, by invading the new suburban sprawl that popped up while they were hibernating...and learns a lesson about family himself.
Gladys, played by Allison JanneyAllison Janney, was originally a Real Estate Agent, but was changed to the president of the Homeowners Association to add to the story.
To prepare for his role as Vincent the Bear, Nick NolteNick Nolte researched information about bears in order to give the right vocal tone and performance to his character.
According to the film makers on the DVD commentary, the movie originally opened with RJ sneaking into Vincent the Bear's cave to steal his food. But then they quickly realized that they were beginning with something more suspenseful so they invented the "Vending Machine" sequence at almost the last minute.
Ozzy is voiced by William ShatnerWilliam Shatner. Hammy later talks about Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, where Shatner played James Tiberius Kirk, who is also the namesake of the cat "Prince Tigeriess Mahmood Shabaz."
Hammy suggests calling the hedge "Steve", saying that "Steve is a nice name". Hammy is voiced by Steve CarellSteve Carell.
The makers originally wanted Bill MurrayBill Murray and Harold RamisHarold Ramis to voice RJ and Verne, respectively.
Sean YazbeckSean Yazbeck (BBQ Barry) and Lee BienstockLee Bienstock (Lunch Table Larry) appeared in the film as a reward for winning their assigned task on the NBC TV series The Apprentice.
Gene WilderGene Wilder was offered a prominent role but declined.
