The film was shot mostly in England. After losing a huge amount of money from its American release, the film was released in Britain about a year later. It was also cut from 155 minutes to 137 minutes. Janet Suzman's role was cut out completely, though her name was still prominently displayed in the opening credits.
Laura Gemser, popular star of the Emanuelle and other sexploitation films, has a minor uncredited role. Director Stuart Rosenberg said he wanted an actress who looked Cuban and personally chose her, even though she's Indonesian. She later called the experience "unreal" and said she enjoyed working with all the major stars, but unfortunately had no lines. She was just Orson Welles' character's arm candy.
Laura Gemser, who played Orsen Welles' escort, said he spent his days locked in his room when not filming scenes and never wanted to talk to anyone. Even when Faye Dunaway went to look for him because she wanted to talk to him, Orson drew back and didn't want to meet her. Gemser felt bad for Dunaway because she came to the set specifically to talk to him.
The only film that year nominated for Best Motion Picture Drama at the Golden Globes, and not Best Picture at the Academy Awards.