Sir Michael Palin says that the plot was taken from a real-life incident involving his great-grandfather.
Final theatrical movie of Robert Eddison ("Rushden" --- The President), who passed away the same year.
The character of Miss Caroline Hartley was originally a much older woman and the role was offered to Anne Bancroft, who turned it down. Ellen Burstyn was then offered the part before the character was completely re-written.
Michael Palin is famous for being a member of the Monty Python troupe. Connie Booth was married to John Cleese, another member of the troupe.