Actor David Niven had a genuine war injury that resulted in him using a prosthetic arm during the film’s production.

Why it matters: This injury added authenticity to Niven's portrayal of Peter Carter, as the character struggles with his mortality and physical limitations, thus deepening the emotional impact of his performance.

The film was one of the first British films to utilize the new Technicolor process effectively, but much of the film was shot in black and white.

Why it matters: The contrast between the vibrant Technicolor heaven scenes and the stark black-and-white earthly scenes emphasized the film's themes of life and death, making the visuals a compelling narrative device.

The screenplay underwent constant changes during production, leading to scenes being rewritten the day before filming.

Why it matters: This fast-paced development resulted in innovative dialogue and organic performances, as actors adapted to new scripts that reflected their character's evolving emotions.

Director Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger frequently consulted with their cast for insights on their characters.

Why it matters: This open collaboration fostered a team environment that enhanced the depth of character development and authenticity of the dialogue, allowing actors to create more nuanced performances.

Real-life aerial footage was used for the sequences showing Peter Carter's near-death experience during a bomber mission.

Why it matters: Using actual footage gave a realistic depiction of wartime struggles that underlined the film's historical context and enriched the emotional resonance of the protagonist's memories.

Innovative special effects techniques were employed to create the ethereal scenes in 'Heaven'.

Why it matters: The surreal visuals of heaven contrasted sharply with the starkness of the real world, enhancing the thematic exploration of life after death and the afterlife's idealization.

Deborah Kerr was initially cast in another role before taking on the part of June, Peter's love interest.

Why it matters: Her casting brought emotional depth to the role, as Kerr's past experiences added layers to her character's sorrow and longing in her scenes with Niven.

The film was partially inspired by an original stage play called 'St. Peter’s Ghost'.

Why it matters: This origin story helped shape the film's unique narrative structure and philosophical themes, connecting cinema with theatrical storytelling in distinctive ways.

The clock that appears frequently in the film represents the passage of time and life’s fleeting nature.

Why it matters: This visual motif reinforces the film's existential themes, becoming a symbol of urgency in Peter's struggle to confront and reclaim his life.

The film delves into psychological struggles inspired by the philosophical musings of the time regarding life, death, and the unknown.

Why it matters: This layer of complexity allows viewers to engage with the film on a deeper intellectual level, prompting discussions about mortality that transcend mere entertainment.

Robert Donat was originally cast as Peter Carter, but due to health issues, David Niven took over shortly before filming.

Why it matters: Niven’s performance defined the character so effectively that it’s difficult to imagine another actor in the role, showcasing the importance of casting in film production.

The surrealistic design of the heaven set was influenced by the art of the time, especially the works of painters like Salvador Dalí.

Why it matters: This artistic influence contributed to the dreamlike quality of the film, allowing viewers to experience a vision of heaven that feels both peculiar and beautiful.

The film featured a live orchestral score, which provided a unique auditory experience and influenced the actors' performances.

Why it matters: This decision enhanced the emotional stakes of scenes, making moments more poignant and immersing the audience in the film's atmosphere.

The characters playing celestial beings were chosen based on their ability to convey empathy rather than purely traditional beauty.

Why it matters: This choice portrays the concept of 'heaven' as a more accessible and relatable experience, altering audience perceptions of what divine beings might represent.

The film incorporates back-and-forth arguments about afterlife beliefs, with different characters representing real-world philosophies.

Why it matters: This thematic debate enriches the narrative, giving it an intellectual framework that makes audiences reflect on their beliefs about life after death.

Throughout the film, characters quote real philosophers and poets, adding depth to their dialogue.

Why it matters: These quotations lend an air of credibility and intellectual depth, encouraging viewers to engage with the film’s bigger ideas rather than just its plot.

Shadow play was extensively used to symbolize the inner turmoil of the protagonist as he confronted death.

Why it matters: This visual storytelling technique highlights the psychological struggle, ensuring that the audience feels the weight of Peter's dilemmas during crucial moments.

The script was written with a focus on poetic language, which is evident in the characters' dialogues.

Why it matters: This richness in vocabulary elevates the film from a conventional love story to a deeply philosophical exploration of existence, resonating with viewers long after the credits roll.

The original working title was 'St. Peter's No. 9,' later changed to 'A Matter of Life and Death' to better reflect its themes.

Why it matters: The final title emphasizes the film's urgent exploration of mortality, drawing attention to the life and death stakes carried throughout the narrative.

The film includes a dramatic reading of Peter's thoughts that was not originally in the script but was added during filming.

Why it matters: This choice provides a deeper insight into the character’s psyche, emphasizing the emotional stakes in a way that pure dialogue couldn’t, resonating strongly with audiences.

The film's narrative style and visual storytelling have influenced many directors in the fantasy genre.

Why it matters: Its innovative blend of reality and fantasy set a benchmark for future films, showcasing how visual effects can enhance thematic storytelling in unique ways.

Several notable actors made uncredited cameo appearances in the heaven sequences, including Richard Attenborough.

Why it matters: These cameos add an extra layer of intrigue and fun during viewings for those who recognize them, enriching the fan experience and the film’s lore.

The original script had Peter dying, but a last-minute decision changed this outcome to a more optimistic note.

Why it matters: This change shifted the film from a tragic narrative to one that offers hope, aligning with the film’s exploration of love and life.