Filming for What's Eating Gilbert Grape began November 2, 1992, and concluded in late January 1993.[1] It was shot in Texas, in various towns and cities; Austin and Pflugerville were primary locations, as well as Manor, where the water tower featured in the film was located.[5] Christian Bale was up for the part of Arnie, but lost to DiCaprio.[6]
Film Review quoted actor Leonardo DiCaprio:
I had to really research and get into the mind of somebody with a disability like that. So I spent a few days at a home for mentally ill teens. We just talked and I watched their mannerisms. People have these expectations that mentally retarded children are really crazy, but it's not so. It's refreshing to see them because everything's so new to them.[7]
