The island in the East River in New York City crossed by the Queensboro Bridge was known as Blackwell's Island, and then Welfare Island from 1921 to 1973 when it was used for hospitals, prisons and other civic institutions. It was renamed Roosevelt Island in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1973. And, shortly after the period depicted in this film, the prison was closed and prisoners were moved to Rikers Island.
The first press screening was held at the Welfare Island Prison.
Despite the disclaimer at the beginning of the film, it was indeed based on a true story. For several years in the 1920s and 1930s, a corrupt warden allowed wealthy gangster inmates to, in effect, run the prison, and to live a life of luxury and ease therein.
The $40 Bull pays for orchids in November of 1932 would equate to about $915 in 2023.
Film debut of Raymond Bailey, best known for his portrayal of Milburn Drysdale on The Beverly Hillbillies (1962).