There was a swear jar on set. Whenever an actor cursed, they needed to put money in the jar. At the end of shooting, the total was given to charity. Allegedly, Colin Farrell was the worst offender and was responsible for the majority of the money.
The original model for Dumbo was somewhat photorealistic, but eventually scrapped for the more expressive one seen in the movie.
Extras in circus scenes were not actors, but actual circus acts. Over 600 circus performers from around the world were hired for crowd scenes.
The studio insisted the film be shot entirely on a sound stage and primarily use CGI as backdrops, not even the outdoor scenes were exterior shots. Director Tim Burton later stated he felt extremely disappointed with the final product, and he nearly retired from directing after making this film.
Eva Green is afraid of heights. She was able to overcome her fear during filming, with the help of a professional performer who trained her in her stunts.
Michael Buffer: Boxing announcer appears as a circus ringmaster. Instead of his trademark line "Let's get ready to rumble!", he says "Let's get ready for Dumbo!"
Tim Burton: [classical music] Soundtrack includes Entry of the Gladiators by Julius Fucík. The same song was used in Burton's बिग फिश (2003).