The movie was adapted by John Osborne from Henry Fielding's novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling. It was directed by Tony Richardson.
It won Academy Awards for Best Director, Best Music, Score - Substantially Original, Best Picture and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium. It was also nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Albert Finney), Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Hugh Griffith), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Diane Cilento), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Dame Edith Evans), Best Actress in a Supporting Role and Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color.
Bridgwater's Castle Street was used as a location in several scenes.