Zensteve,
Believe it or not, my first feature was an 18th century setting with a cast of over 40 characters. They were all willing to act for free but none of us had any experience in the department. I finished the project (with many mistakes) on a $1,600 budget. It was 160 minutes in length, and that after cutting out a dozen scenes.
And you're right! Watch out for the Missouri-ites! 
Thank you so much for your welcome.
