Because of its tight shooting schedule and low budget the production couldn't afford to have snow created for the exterior scenes. Instead, it was decided to have rain outside throughout the film for a more moody atmosphere. A fire hose had to be used to create the rain for the outdoor scenes, which is why in some shots the sky is obviously clear even though it's supposed to be raining.
The cast boasts Oscar winners Sally Field and Walter Brennan and Oscar nominees Julie Harris and Eleanor Parker.
Eleanor Parker, who plays eldest daughter Alex, was actually three years older than Julie Harris, who plays her father's wife, Elizabeth. She was also 19 years older than Jessica Walter, who plays Freddie, the second eldest daughter, and 23 years older than Jill Haworth, who plays Jo. Sally Field's character, Chris, is supposed to be much younger than the other sisters. However, she is only 15 months younger than Jill Haworth and five years younger than Jessica Walter.
Aired as an installment of ABC's "Wide World of Mystery" on March 4, 1974.