Was chosen by Premiere magazine as one of the "100 Movies That Shook the World" in the October 1998 issue. The list ranked the most "daring movies ever made."
The film was shot on the Sardinian Eastern Coast, in the province of Nuoro.
A sequel was planned, but the idea was abandoned after the death of Mariangela Melato.
A remake was made, entitled "Travolti dal destino" (original title Swept Away) directed by Guy Ritchie and starring Madonna and Adriano Giannini, son of Giancarlo.
The refuge of Carunchio and the most sensual scenes were shot in the dunes of Capo Comino, resort town of Siniscola.