Stories from the set

The film is based on Darryl Ponicsan's debut novel "The Last Detail" (The Last Detail, 1970).

The film was shot in a "gentle" mode, with scenes filmed in chronological order so that inexperienced actors could "get into" the situation. The filmmakers could not find a cinematographer and editor for a long time. The cinematographer was tasked with using natural light in such a way as to achieve the utmost documentary feel of the "picture."

Because Hal Ashby delayed the editing and also insisted on unusual transitions between scenes, the studio tried to take the footage away from him. The film's release was also delayed due to the abundance of profanity. In order to avoid a restrictive release rating, it was necessary to cut 26 lines containing swear words.