Over the past few years, Hollywood has released a wave of films about rock stars. Movies like Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman, and Elvis topped the box office and earned several Oscar nominations. These films often explore the darker aspects of their subjects’ lives while featuring their greatest hits. However, Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere takes a different approach.
Directed by Scott Cooper, the film premiered at the Telluride Film Festival with Bruce Springsteen in attendance. It is based on Warren Zanes’s compelling book, Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska. Unlike the other musical biopics, this film digs deep into a challenging chapter of Springsteen’s life. It’s as much about his struggles with depression as it is about his music.
In the early 1980s, Springsteen was still reeling from his rise to fame with Born to Run. Even though he had achieved success, wealth eluded him. He was known for his perfectionism, often investing his own money in recording sessions. The fear of becoming too famous weighed heavily on him, and he battled mental illness—a struggle that ran in his family. This inner turmoil made it hard for him to build lasting relationships.
As Springsteen navigated this tough time, his manager, Jon Landau, worked to protect him from the pressure of the record label. At the same time, Springsteen was forming a relationship with Faye Romano, a single mother. During this period, he withdrew more than ever, spending his time with dark literature and films. He began creating demos in his bedroom, favoring the raw, acoustic sound over polished studio sessions. This decision faced pushback from the label, but Springsteen stood firm.
The film pays close attention to these details. It captures the essence of Springsteen’s journey but may leave casual fans wanting a more conventional portrayal of the rock star they know. Interestingly, the film explores the relationship between Springsteen and Landau more than that with Romano. Their bond dates back to a pivotal moment in 1974 when Landau, then a music critic, famously declared Springsteen the future of rock and roll after a performance.
The performances in the film are noteworthy. Jeremy Allen White embodies Springsteen brilliantly, showcasing both his depth and charisma, while also singing his own parts. Jeremy Strong offers a powerful portrayal of Landau, and Odessa Young shines as Romano. All three actors have the potential to earn Oscar nominations, and the film itself might not be far behind.
According to recent surveys, movies that delve into the mental health struggles of artists resonate deeply with audiences. A study published by the American Psychological Association found that 53% of viewers said they prefer stories that explore the emotional lives of musicians. Given the film’s focus on Springsteen’s internal battles, it may strike a chord with viewers.
Ultimately, Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere stands out as a nuanced portrayal of a rock legend. It highlights not just the music, but the man behind it, offering viewers a chance to connect with Springsteen on a deeper level.
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Bruce Springsteen,Deliver Me From Nowhere,Jeremy Allen White,Jeremy Strong,Odessa Young,Scott Cooper,Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere,Telluride 2025
