[5] The film revolves around country music singer Hank Williams' rise to fame and sudden death at the age of 29.

[17] In June 2014, producers secured the rights to Williams' music for the film after making a deal with Sony ATV.

[7][18] Aaron L. Gilbert with Bron Studios produced the film alongside Brett Ratner's production company RatPac Entertainment, G. Marq Roswell and Abraham.

[21] To prepare for the film and work on his singing and guitar playing, Hiddleston practiced with country singer Rodney Crowell.

[23] Crowell said of Hiddleston: "After nearly a month spent collaborating with this gifted artist, I'm as respectful of the man's work ethic as I'm mystified by his transformational skills.

[27] On September 12, Rolling Stone announced that Elizabeth Olsen would be playing Audrey Williams, Hank's wife, manager and duet partner.

The site's consensus states: "I Saw the Light boasts a terrifically talented cast, but their performances aren't enough to enliven an unfocused biopic that never comes close to capturing its subject's timeless appeal.

"[40] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone gave the film one of four stars, stating "Not even a singin', boozin' Tom Hiddleston can save this tepid Hank Williams biopic from itself.