The movie was adapted by Michael Wilson from the novel by Jessamyn West, and was directed by William Wyler.
It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Anthony Perkins), Best Director, Best Music, Song (Dimitri Tiomkin and Paul Francis Webster for Friendly Persuasion (Thee I Love)), Best Picture, Best Sound, Recording and Best Writing, Best Screenplay - Adapted.
The film won the 1957 Palme d'Or (Golden Palm) at the Cannes Film Festival.
The movie was originally released with no screenwriting credit because Michael Wilson was on the Hollywood Blacklist. His credit was restored in 1996.
Friendly Persuasion was remade for television in 1975, starring Richard Kiley, Shirley Knight, Clifton James and Michael O'Keefe. It was adapted by William P. Wood and directed by Joseph Sargent. This version also included material from Jessamyn West's sequel novel, Except For Thee and Me.