Robert Rossen selected documentary cinematographer Floyd Crosby because he wanted a realistic look for this film. This would become Crosby's first mainstream project. Crosby started the film, but was eventually replaced by James Wong Howe.
Filmed in the spring of 1950, but not released until the following year because producer-director Robert Rossen was under investigation by the House Un-American Activities Committee.
Marlon Brando turned down the role of Raul Fuentes, telling Robert Rossen, "Offer the role to Anthony Quinn. He wants to be me, anyway."