Director Phillip Noyce wanted Heath Ledger to play the role of Alden Pyle, but was happy with Brendan Fraser's work in this movie.
Sir Michael Caine agreed to play in this movie only if Craig Armstrong did the music, which was what eventually happened.
At age 68, Sir Michael Caine was felt to be too old for his character, but his performance still led him to receive an Oscar nomination.
The American release was delayed for more than a year by the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The producers were concerned that this movie would be seen as anti-American.
When talking to Charlie Rose about this movie, Sir Michael Caine said that his performance as Thomas Fowler was the best he had ever given.