The 2015 Calgary International Film Festival Opening Gala film is the much-anticipated biopic about the late country music icon Hank Williams. After-party to follow at Jack Singer Concert Hall. 

Writer/Director Marc Abraham and cast member Maddie Hasson will be in attendance! 

Watch CIFF's interview with Writer/Director Marc Abraham.

Named after Hank Williams' gospel country song, I SAW THE LIGHT is the big-screen retelling of the life of the talented but troubled Williams, starting with his meteoric rise to stardom, exploring his struggles with substance abuse and ultimately, his untimely death.

The film boasts a star-studded cast with British actor Tom Hiddleston (THOR, WAR HORSE, CRIMSON PEAK) playing the lead role. Striking an uncanny resemblance to Williams, Hiddleston himself performs Williams' music for the film, fully embodying the persona of the Grand Ole Opry legend.

Elizabeth Olsen (GODZILLA, OLDBOY) stars as Williams' wife (and mother to Hank Williams Jr.), David Krumholtz (RAY, THE JUDGE) plays journalist James Dolan, and Bradley Whitford (THE WEST WING, THE CABIN IN THE WOODS) is music publisher/songwriter Fred Rose to round out the cast.

Written and directed by Marc Abraham (producer of CHILDREN OF MEN and DAWN OF THE DEAD), I SAW THE LIGHT is based on Colin Escott’s award-winning biography, which Abraham adapted into the screenplay.  

Williams – born in Alabama in 1923 - an early and important pioneer of country music before drug and alcohol abuse brought on his early death at just 29-years-old. Known for country classics such as "Your Cheatin' Heart," and “I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," Williams' music was often dubbed "Hillbilly Shakespeare" because of his poetic lyrics, but he was also known for his dark side, battling the demons of his addictions until the day he died. 

I SAW THE LIGHT details the rise and fall of Williams in heartbreaking, unforgettable fashion.

Both general ($35) and gold-level ($100, including prime seating and tickets to the VIP pre-reception) tickets are available. Enjoy the red carpet experience and mingle with friends prior to the screening, doors open at 6:30 PM.

If you purchased tickets to the VIP Pre-reception (Gold Level Ticket) it runs from 6:15 PM to 7:15 PM at Jack Singer Concert Hall, 2nd floor. 

Following the party at Jack Singer, we'll be heading down to the Bank & Baron on 8 Ave for the official after party featuring food and drink specials, including house wine & Big Rock pints for $5!