The film's first and final scenes are the exact same piece of film. In the final scene, Timmy and a random girl he meets walk away up the street in long shot as the credits roll. In the opening scene, they are visible walking away on the left hand side of the screen while the same cars pass them by.
This was the most successful British-made film at British box office in 1974.
Among those who turned down the lead role were Dennis Waterman, Richard Beckinsale, Richard O'Sullivan and, according to his own account, Nicky Henson.
Executive producer Norman Cohen was originally going to direct the film, but was persuaded to step aside in favor of the more experienced Val Guest. Cohen would instead direct the film's three sequels.
For the DVD release, a US print of the film was used. The only difference between this and the UK print is one reference Timmy makes to his "ass" in the American version. In the UK version he says "bum."