Filmmaker Scott Cooper takes a distinctive approach to his latest project, “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,” shifting away from traditional music biopics to present a deep character study of rock legend Bruce Springsteen. Rather than chronicle Springsteen’s entire life or delve into his most famous hits, Cooper focuses on a transformative period in the musician’s career during the early 1980s, specifically leading up to the release of the album “Nebraska.”
Set in late 1981, the film draws inspiration from Warren Zanes’ book of the same name. It captures a time when Springsteen was grappling with personal demons while striving to create deeply resonant music. The film features Jeremy Allen White in the role of Springsteen, who embodies the artist’s essence with his portrayal, despite not mimicking his appearance precisely. White channels Springsteen’s intense spirit and distinct vocal style while performing the songs from “Nebraska.”
The narrative unfolds as Springsteen retreats to a rental home in Colts Neck, New Jersey, following a rigorous tour. Struggling to adapt to the silence surrounding him, he seeks solace in familiar locales, including his hometown rock club, The Stone Pony, and a complicated relationship with a fan named Faye, played by Odessa Young. The film also explores Springsteen’s challenging upbringing with an alcoholic father, portrayed by Stephen Graham, and a loving yet turbulent mother, played by Gaby Hoffman.
Cooper artfully visualizes Springsteen’s emotional landscape through black-and-white flashbacks and evocative scenes of him revisiting his past. As the story progresses, viewers witness the artist’s creative process, juxtaposed with his personal struggles. The film navigates through moments of reflection and inspiration as Springsteen immerses himself in literature and film, including works by Flannery O’Connor and Terrence Malick, which inform his songwriting.
Despite its strengths, “Deliver Me From Nowhere” encounters familiar pitfalls typically associated with biographical storytelling. Scenes depicting the songwriting process tread on well-worn territory, which may detract from the film’s overall impact. As Springsteen draws inspiration from darker themes and historical figures, the dialogue captures the complexities of his creative mind.
The film shines during the recording scenes, where Springsteen’s commitment to authenticity is palpable. Using a four-track recorder, he captures the haunting essence of “Nebraska.” The challenges he faces in reproducing the raw sound frustrate his engineer Chuck Plotkin and devoted manager Jon Landau, played by Marc Maron and Jeremy Strong, respectively.
Although “Deliver Me From Nowhere” excels in its exploration of creativity, it struggles to maintain momentum in its latter half. The narrative veers into a period of depression in Springsteen’s life, failing to regain the engaging rhythm established earlier in the movie. Cooper opts for subtle emotional highs rather than grandiose moments, presenting a more introspective and contemplative portrayal of the artist.
While not entirely successful, “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere” offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of celebrity and artistry. It invites audiences to reflect on the personal journeys of musicians and the profound impact of their work. The film contains thematic material, some sexual content, strong language, and smoking.
“Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere” is rated PG-13 and is currently showing at theaters, including AMC Boston Common, Causeway, and Alamo Drafthouse Seaport.
