The movie was adapted by Pat Conroy and Becky Johnston from Conroy's novel. It was directed by Streisand.
It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Nick Nolte), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Kate Nelligan), Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Best Cinematography, Best Music, Original Score, Best Picture and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium.