This movie is considered the most faithful of the three screen versions of John Buchan's source novel, despite the addition of the Big Ben clock-tower finale (which was borrowed from Will Hay's My Learned Friend (1943)), which was not in the book.
Robert Powell reprised his role as Richard Hannay in the ITV series Hannay (1988). Screenwriter Michael Robson also wrote regularly for the series.
The Big Ben clocktower seen in this movie, utilized for long-shots and exteriors, is the real London landmark. The close-ups for the action sequences was a replica of Big Ben built on a soundstage at Pinewood Studios.
Robert Powell was cast in the lead role of Richard Hannay due to his popularity from starring in Jesus of Nazareth (1977).