Filmmaker Scott Cooper has taken a distinct approach with his latest project, “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,” prioritizing character exploration over a traditional biopic format. Instead of chronicling the extensive life of rock legend Bruce Springsteen, the film offers a focused look into a pivotal moment in his life, echoing the introspective tone of Cooper’s earlier work, “Crazy Heart.”
Rather than highlighting Springsteen’s chart-topping hits, the narrative centers primarily on a contemplative period in the artist’s career, specifically during the creation of his 1982 acoustic album, “Nebraska.” This adaptation is based on Warren Zanes’ book of the same name, which emphasizes Springsteen’s emotional and creative struggles.
Jeremy Allen White, known for his role in “The Bear,” portrays Springsteen with a mix of authenticity and intensity. While he may not look exactly like the iconic musician, White embodies the essence of Springsteen, capturing his signature gaze and rock ‘n’ roll demeanor through live performances.
In the film, set in Colts Neck, New Jersey, during late 1981, Springsteen grapples with post-tour solitude and personal demons. He frequents his local music venue, The Stone Pony, and navigates a complex relationship with a fan named Faye, played by Odessa Young. The narrative delves into his troubled upbringing, highlighting the impact of his alcoholic father, portrayed by Stephen Graham, and his loving yet volatile mother, played by Gaby Hoffman.
Cooper employs various storytelling techniques to visualize Springsteen’s emotional landscape. The film features black-and-white flashbacks and scenes of Bruce revisiting his childhood haunts, all while intertwining memories with his creative process. As he reflects on influential works, such as Flannery O’Connor’s stories and Terrence Malick’s film “Badlands,” the narrative examines the connection between personal trauma and artistic expression.
The climax unfolds as Springsteen records “Nebraska” in his home, utilizing a four-track recorder. This period of artistic synthesis is particularly engaging, as it showcases the artist’s efforts to capture the rawness of his experiences. His sound engineer, Chuck Plotkin, played by Marc Maron, and his manager, Jon Landau, portrayed by Jeremy Strong, exhibit both confusion and admiration for Springsteen’s unique vision.
Despite its thoughtful exploration of creativity, “Deliver Me From Nowhere” encounters challenges in maintaining momentum toward the end. The film meanders into a darker segment of Springsteen’s life, which detracts from the earlier emotional resonance. Cooper opts for quieter moments, rejecting grandiose portrayals of success, opting instead for intimate scenes that reflect vulnerability and introspection.
While the film may not fully succeed in its ambitious goals, it offers a compelling perspective on the complexities of portraying rock stars on screen and the intricacies of their music-making processes. “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,” which contains thematic elements, strong language, and some scenes of sexuality, is set to be released in theaters on March 15, 2024.
Grade: C+
This film presents an opportunity for audiences to engage with a different side of a music icon, challenging conventional biopic narratives and inviting viewers to contemplate the personal experiences that shape artistic expression.
