There was much criticism that Sean Bean was 36 when the film was made.
Emilly Lloyd was originally cast in the role of Annie Doherty with a northern England accent but her attempt was considered too unconvincing by the film's director. Her accent was then changed to an Irish accent.
Joe Elliott, the lead singer of UK rock band Def Leppard (who were formed in Sheffield in 1978), was asked to audition for the role of Sean Bean's brother in the film but couldn't due to other commitments. Instead he penned two tunes for the soundtrack. "When Saturday Comes" and "Jimmys' Theme".
Being a self-professed supporter of Sheffield United football club, Sean Bean's initial reaction on reading the screenplay was that someone was making a joke about his allegiance.
Sean Bean suggested casting Freddie Fletcher.