According to the DVD documentary, included in the final cut of the film is a scene where Al Pacino's character gets rudely bumped into on 5th Avenue while trying to court Ellen Barkin's character. According to director Harold Becker, this was an unscripted moment caused by a real New Yorker, and not an extra. Pacino incorporates the moment into his performance, and continues without missing a beat.
The apprehension of criminals by arranging a "Meet the Yankees" breakfast was based on an actual event.
Scenes with Lorraine Bracco as Pacino's ex-wife were filmed, but cut from the final product. They've been restored for television viewings of this movie.
Novelist Richard Price originally wrote the screenplay for Dustin Hoffman, but he wanted too many re-writes, so Al Pacino took over the role.
In the final scene, when Frank and Helen are walking down the street, some of the passersby glance at Pacino, recognizing him.