The film featured no handheld camera work, which had been a trademark of the films that John Cassavetes had directed.
The film was entered into competition at the 34th Berlin International Film Festival in 1984 where it won the top prize, the prestigious Golden Bear Award.
Jon Voight originated the role of Robert Harmon in the stage play and was originally slated to reprise his role in the film, but left the production due to scheduling conflicts and "creative differences" with John Cassavetes.