Trivia: The film was originally intended to be directed by its writer, David Mickey Evans; however, Columbia felt he was too inexperienced, so it was given to Richard Donner. Evans would go on to write and direct The Sandlot. He wrote a novella based on the script for this film, which included many parts originally cut from the film, including the different ending.
Trivia: The young nun in the hospital who informs Hoffa and Bobby that Flynn is dying is played by Jack Nicholson's daughter.
Trivia: Although Edie McClurg plays Stephen Shellen's mother, she is only six years older than Shellen in real life.
Trivia: Dale Cooper's role was originally larger than it appeared in the final film. Kyle MacLachlan had originally declined to appear, for fear of being typecast. To compensate, his role was downgraded to a minor cameo, and a new character was created to fill the role of lead investigator.
Trivia: Though Alec Baldwin's character never introduces himself, in the script his name is Blake.