Sony Pictures Classics announced today that they have acquired worldwide rights to I Saw the Light, the story of the legendary country western singer Hank Williams, who in his brief life created one of the greatest bodies of work in American music. The film chronicles his meteoric rise to fame and its ultimately tragic effect on his health and personal life.
Written and directed by Marc Abraham, I Saw the Light is based on Colin Escott’s award-winning biography and stars Tom Hiddleston, Elizabeth Olsen, Bradley Whitford, David Krumholtz and Cherry Jones. RatPac Entertainment’s Brett Ratner and Bron Studios’ Aaron L. Gilbert produced the film, with G. Marq Roswell and Abraham. James Packer of RatPac Entertainment and Jason Cloth of Creative Wealth Media Finance executive produced. Notable director of photography Dante Spinotti was the cinematographer for the film.
“All of us at RatPac Entertainment are thrilled that Sony Pictures Classics is distributing ‘I Saw the Light,’ as Michael and Tom are unparalleled in their marketing and distribution expertise. This film is a perfect fit, especially given their passion for country music, and we could not be in better hands,” said Brett Ratner.
“For over 20 years Sony Classics has been making, distributing and supporting independent films and filmmakers. If you want your film presented to the right audiences with fervor and in the company of previous artists from Kurosawa to Bergman, and countless others, you wish upon a star for Tom Bernard and Michael Barker to be in your corner,” said Marc Abraham. “‘I Saw the Light,’ with Tom, Lizzie and gang, is in the right spot by me.”
“Tom Hiddleston gives an amazing performance completely embodying the talent and spirit of Hank Williams, and Marc’s script and direction are brilliant,” said Aaron L. Gilbert. “I am very pleased that the picture has found a home at Sony Pictures Classics where I know Michael and Tom will give it the attention and special handling it deserves.”
Sony Pictures Classics added, “We have been actively talking with Brett Ratner about becoming involved with ‘I Saw the Light’ for a long time. Globally at this moment, adoration for Hank Williams and his music is at fever pitch. The timing is perfect for a full screen portrayal of his life. As embodied by Tom Hiddleston and written and directed by Marc Abraham, ‘I Saw the Light’ in our opinion, can’t miss with audiences worldwide. We are so pleased to be a part of this adventure.”
