This film bears such a striking resemblance to A Star Is Born (1937) that it is often considered "the original version" of that often remade classic. In fact, David O. Selznick, who produced both this film and Star is Born, was threatened with a lawsuit by this film's writers, claiming plagiarism.
George Cukor, who directed this film, was offered the chance to direct its "partial remake," A Star Is Born (1937), but turned it down, claiming the two films were too similar. Interestingly, Cukor would later direct the 1954 Judy Garland/James Mason musical remake of that film, often cited as the best version of this material.
This pre-Code precursor to A Star Is Born (1937) offers a more disturbing Depression-era view of Hollywood's underbelly, evidenced by the first restaurant scene, in which Constance Bennett rebukes an industry parasite on the make by accusing him of statutory rape, and Lowell Sherman admonishes the mannish clothing worn by an obviously lesbian customer.
Gregory Ratoff's portrayal of thick-accented studio head Julius Saxe was partially based on real-life independent producer Samuel Goldwyn, who was famous for such malapropisms as "Include me out!"
Neil Hamilton, who plays Mary's persistent suitor Lonny, had been a leading man in the silent movie era and continued working until the end of his life. More than 30 years after this film, Hamilton was cast in the role for which he is best remembered: Police Commissioner Gordon in Batman (1966), starring Adam West.