The first film and only major live-action role for Rob Paulsen. During the same year he would voice several characters in G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero (1983), leading him to gravitate further away from on-camera acting to voice acting and became better known as Raphael in the original Les tortues ninjas (1987) animated series, Pinky from Minus et Cortex (1995) and Yakko from Animaniacs (1993). By the mid-90's he was one of the most in-demand voice actors in the industry.
The director's cut shows more of Smythe's descent into madness and evil, as he tries to kill Leah after the cow is killed only for her to vanish while his back is turned and then blames her for leading them into the valley. He would also attempt to shoot Eloise in the back when she and the others abandon him, but he can't bring himself to do it.
The scene of Marion speaking with Jewel Buchanan by the fire was originally longer and explained why Jewel was so loyal to Will Smythe, as the sinful preacher had taught him how to read and write, as well as the names of the stars, so the young farmer no longer felt like an idiot.
Andrew, the town judge who attempts to have Will Smythe hung for adultery, was played by an uncredited John Miranda and originally had a slightly larger role in the story, chasing after Smythe and his followers. Marion Dalton would come across his body hung from a tree, apparently killed by Indians.