The sequence with Powell riding a horse in the distance was actually a dwarf on a pony. It was filmed in false perspective.
Later on in life, Robert Mitchum, who was usually indifferent to such matters, said that Charles Laughton was his favorite director and indicated that this was his favorite of the movies in which he had acted.
Dutch-born American serial killer Harry Powers (né Herman Drenth) was the inspiration for the Preacher.
At their initial meeting, Lillian Gish asked Charles Laughton why he wanted her for the part and he replied, "When I first went to the movies, they sat in their seats straight and leaned forward. Now they slump down, with their heads back, and eat candy and popcorn. I want them to sit up straight again."
Producer Paul Gregory and Charles Laughton presented key members of the crew, like cinematographer Stanley Cortez, each with a 1% interest in the film. This was given to them on top of their salaries and is something that is never done. Gregory and Laughton said it was not done to encourage the artists, but to reward them for their artistry. This was done over the objections of United Artists.