* DuelingMovies: In contest with ''Film/TheRoad (2009)''. Both are post-apocalyptic movies about a man safeguarding something he holds dear. Both movies emphasize the aspects of reaching a destination, lying South or West.
* DyeingForYourArt: Creator/DenzelWashington shed about fifty pounds in preparation for the film.
* ExecutiveMeddling: Executives pushed for Eli to be ex military something everyone involved in production was against including writer Gary Whitta who insisted that Eli was supposed to be an "everyman". This idea was eventually relayed to Creator/DenzelWashington, who also thought it was a stupid idea and threatened to walk if they didn't relent. Needless to say Eli remained an "everyman".
* FakeAmerican: A good portion of the cast, including Creator/GaryOldman and Creator/MichaelGambon. Creator/RayStevenson, much as we love him, [[OohMeAccentsSlipping was not fooling anyone]].
* NoStuntDouble: Creator/DenzelWashington performed all of his own stunts in the hand-to-hand fight sequences.
* WhatCouldHaveBeen: Creator/KristenStewart turned down the role of Solara, due to scheduling conflicts with ''Film/{{Twilight}}''. Creator/BrieLarson auditioned for the role.
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