The period of principal photography on this picture was a shoot that ran for about five and a half weeks.
Star Peter Fonda mandated that Bruce Langhorne compose the music for this movie. Director Jonathan Demme states on the film's audio-commentary that this was the only time Fonda through his weight around on the production. However, Fonda reportedly also insisted on driving a Caterpillar bulldozer in one scene instead of having a stunt double do it for him.
Like many of his other movies, movie star Peter Fonda provided his own artillery for the climatic scene where he infiltrates Pierce Crabtree (Philip Carey)'s house.
Charles Napier was also considered for the role of Pierce Crabtree. Director Jonathan Demme on the film's audio-commentary recalls that wanted him based on his work in Russ Meyer movies but producer Roger Corman felt at the time that the picture need a bigger star name. In the end, the part was cast with actor Philip Carey.
Actor Harry Northup, who played Sheriff Len Skerritt, improvised and ad-libbed a lot of his own dialogue.
George Armitage: Uncredited, as a man playing tennis. He can be seen as the tennis player who witnesses the murder of Judge O'Connor in the park.