Robin Campillo and co-screenwriter Philippe Mangeot drew on their personal experiences with ACT UP in developing the story. One scene was also based on Campillo's experience with the AIDS epidemic, as he said "I've dressed up a boyfriend on his death".
When The Square (2017) won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, several of the jurors, notably jury president Pedro Almodóvar, openly questioned the decision over this contentious gay-themed film.
The French government were interested in using the film as an educational tool but Robin Campillo refused as he has no interest in lecturing audiences.
The title may refer to a fast heartbeat, but also to the rhythm of the house music which had broken through at the time the film was set.