The film was shot simultaneously on 35 mm film and high-definition video. Tommy Wiseau was confused about the differences between the formats, so he used both cameras on the same mount. Wiseau purchased the cameras instead of renting them as film productions usually do.
After a very limited theatrical run, the film has become popular as a "midnight movie" with a cult following. Audience members dress up as the characters, throw plastic spoons at the screen, and toss footballs to each other. Wiseau attends many of the screenings and holds Q&A sessions with the audience.
A billboard for the film was posted on Highland Ave in Los Angeles where it stayed for five years.
The script was originally written as a play and then a novel.
Kyle Vogt quit the film due to creative differences with Wiseau. This explains why Peter is not at the party at the end. Peter's lines were given to Greg Ellery
Other actors were originally cast as Michelle and Mark but they quit the film due to creative differences. Their scenes were reshot.
On 01 April 2009, Cartoon Network's Adult Swim aired The Room (2003) in entirety as an April Fool's joke.