William A. Seiter had previously directed The Marx Brothers and was able to get Margaret Dumont to do a cameo as one of Benny's intended customers.
This film was regarded as a major departure for Bud Abbott and Lou Costello. It was their first situation comedy, and the comedy was character-/situation-driven rather than gag-driven.
This was the first Bud Abbott and Lou Costello feature in which they did not play a team. The story centers on Costello's character, while Abbott doesn't appear until 16 minutes into the film. This was because the two were in the midst of a terrific feud and did not speak to each other outside of the film. They do not share a scene until 20 minutes into the picture.