It was written by Michael Cimino and Bo Goldman from a story by Bill Kerby, and directed by Mark Rydell.
The Rose was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Frederic Forrest), Best Actress in a Leading Role (Bette Midler, in her screen debut), Best Film Editing and Best Sound.
The lyrics of the theme song, "The Rose", sung by Midler, play across the screen at the end of the credits.