Writer-director Scott Cooper has taken a bold step away from traditional music biopics with his latest film, “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.” Rather than presenting a chronological account of the life of New Jersey’s iconic rock star, Bruce Springsteen, Cooper opts for a character-driven exploration, reminiscent of his Oscar-winning debut, “Crazy Heart.” This film delves into a specific, introspective period of Springsteen’s life, particularly focusing on the creation of his 1982 acoustic album, “Nebraska.”
Unlike conventional biopics that cover an artist's entire career and major hits, “Deliver Me From Nowhere” refrains from chronicling every chapter of Springsteen's journey. Instead, it hones in on a crucial moment in his career when the musician grappled with personal demons, resulting in profound artistic expression. Drawing inspiration from Warren Zanes’ 2023 book of the same name, Cooper’s narrative offers a contemplative look at the creative process, emphasizing the isolation and transformation that come with deeply personal expression.
In a remarkable performance, Jeremy Allen White, known for his role in “The Bear,” embodies Springsteen with authenticity. Sporting leather jackets and flannels, White captures the essence of the rock icon, even if he doesn’t physically resemble him. What he lacks in an exact likeness, he makes up for with a raw intensity that reflects Springsteen’s spirit, particularly during musical performances. His portrayal highlights the emotional depth and struggles of the artist, inviting viewers to connect with Springsteen’s journey.
The film transports audiences to late 1981, where Springsteen finds himself in a rental home in Colts Neck, N.J., grappling with the silence that follows a grueling tour. As he attempts to find solace in familiar places, including the famous Stone Pony rock club and a fleeting relationship with a fan named Faye (played by Odessa Young), the shadows of his past loom large. Cooper artfully visualizes Springsteen’s emotional struggles through evocative black-and-white flashbacks and intimate moments with Faye, showcasing the complexities of his childhood marked by an alcoholic father (played by Stephen Graham) and a loving yet tumultuous mother (played by Gaby Hoffmann).
One of the standout aspects of “Deliver Me From Nowhere” is its focus on the songwriting process. Springsteen’s introspection leads him to explore various influences, including Flannery O’Connor stories and the film “Badlands.” As he dives into the tragic tale of spree killer Charles Starkweather, the film captures the confluence of memory, fiction, and horror that informs the songs on “Nebraska.” The meticulous recording process, featuring a four-track recorder and collaborations with his guitar tech Mike Batlan (played by Paul Walter Hauser), adds a layer of authenticity that will resonate with audio enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Cooper’s film also pays tribute to the unsung heroes of the music industry, particularly Jon Landau (played by Jeremy Strong), Springsteen’s devoted manager. Landau’s role in safeguarding Springsteen’s creative space and ensuring his artistic vision is realized adds depth to the narrative. As the film illustrates the struggles between artistic integrity and commercial pressures, it reinforces the importance of those who support artists in their pursuit of authenticity.
The cinematography by Masanobu Takayanagi enhances the film’s raw authenticity, capturing the energetic chaos of live performances alongside tender, intimate moments. The score by Jeremiah Fraites beautifully complements the iconic songs, creating an immersive experience that resonates with the audience. While the film effectively explores the creative process, it does lose momentum towards the end, wandering into a more depressive period of Springsteen’s life.
Ultimately, “Deliver Me From Nowhere” stands out as a unique interpretation of the music biopic genre. By eschewing grandiose moments in favor of intimate, contemplative storytelling, Cooper invites audiences to reflect on the complexities of artistic expression. While the film may not be entirely successful in maintaining its momentum, it offers a fascinating perspective on the lives of rock stars and the profound music they create that resonates with us all.
