Director Frank Wisbar hoped that by showing war in all its horror, as a shark devouring everyone and everything in its path, he could make a powerful anti-war statement.
Although listed in some sources, Karl Lieffen does not appear in this movie. The role of Dr. Trimmler, which is sometimes credited to him, was actually played by Peter Frank. Also, Hans Paetsch isn't part of the cast either, despite being credited sometimes as playing a General.