La regina Cristina (1933) and Il velo dipinto (1934) were both huge hits in Europe (making twice their budget in the UK alone), but were underwhelming US successes.
During previews, some reviewers felt the opening scenes were much too drawn out. As a result, the film was cut, and some additional scenes were shot.
Most contemporary reviewers list Beulah Bondi in the role of Frau Koerber, but Bodil Rosing is credited onscreen and is in the movie. She probably replaced Bondi in the retakes. Similarly, Billy Bevan was replaced by Hans von Morhart.
A church facade was added to the standing set known as the French District at MGM. The church became a permanent part of the set and stood until the lot was cleared in the 1970s, when Kirk Kerkorian took control.