Director Andrzej Munk died during production. The film was left in an unfinished state, but was later assembled for release, using photo stills and voice-over narration.
Banned in Ireland in 1966; head censor Christopher Macken described it as a "horror film" and also objected to the scene where naked women are driven to the chambers.
It was passed on appeal with an uncut over-16's certificate.
It was passed on appeal with an uncut over-16's certificate.
One of the few films actually shot in Auschwitz, depicting the horrific events less than 20 years after they happened. Very few film sets were built, as the production team used existing buildings, barracks, etc.
The conditions shown in the camp almost accurately mirror those when the camp was active. The deep mud everywhere is especially accurate, unlike modern times, in which the walkways have all been paved over for tourists.