'' Songwriter '' is a 1984 film directed by Alan Rudolph . At the 57th Academy Awards , it received an Oscar nomination for Best Music ( Original Song Score ) for Kris Kristofferson . The film is a satirical comedy-drama about an artist seeking his freedom . The material is loosely based on Willie Nelson 's own life and legend and finances . His song " Night Life " , for example , which he sold in 1961 for $ 150 , went on to be recorded by over 70 artists and sold more than 30 million copies
57th Academy Awards
57th Academy Awards
Songwriter (1984 film)