Introduction to Music Biopics
Music biopics can be challenging to create, as the stories of famous musicians often follow similar patterns. Some films, like the Amy Winehouse movie Back to Black, focus on the journey from discovery to stardom. Others, such as the Bob Dylan film A Complete Unknown, take a closer look at a specific aspect of the artist’s life to reveal something more profound.
The Story of Bruce Springsteen
The movie Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere takes a different approach, meeting Bruce Springsteen when he is already an established star. The film shows him finishing his tour for the 1980 album, The River, and then retreating to his New Jersey home to start writing songs for his next album, Nebraska. This album features stripped-down tunes that are a departure from his previous hits like "Born to Run" and "Hungry Heart."
The Making of Nebraska
Working with producer Jon Landau and guitar tech/friend Mike Batlan, Springsteen records songs in his bedroom using purposefully outdated equipment. During this time, he also starts dating single mother Faye Romano while struggling with feelings of depression that affect his views on music, family, and the world. The film is based on the book Deliver Me from Nowhere by Warren Zanes and explores the process of creating the iconic album Nebraska.
The Film’s Approach
Written and directed by Scott Cooper, the film has effective moments but also some head-scratching ones. The focus on Springsteen’s mental state at the time often overshadows the music, with flashback scenes detailing his abusive father. However, these scenes sometimes feel disconnected from his current actions, making him seem like a stereotypical temperamental artist rather than a complex individual.
Character Relationships
The relationship between Springsteen and his producer Jon Landau is a highlight of the film, showing a deep trust and devotion between the two. On the other hand, the fictional character of Faye Romano feels unnecessary, as her relationship with Springsteen does not add to his personal or musical story. A deeper exploration of the Springsteen-Landau relationship could have been more compelling.
Performances and Impact
Jeremy Allen White delivers a good performance as Springsteen, especially in emulating his singing style. Jeremy Strong also shines in his role as Jon Landau, bringing subtlety and commitment to the character. Despite the efforts of the cast, the film may not resonate with everyone, appealing mainly to hardcore Springsteen fans. The movie’s release on October 24 will likely attract fans of the musician, but its impact may be limited due to its less-than-crowd-pleasing narrative.
Conclusion
The film Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere offers a unique look at the life of Bruce Springsteen, focusing on his mental state and the creation of the album Nebraska. While it has its moments, the film’s approach and character development may not appeal to everyone. As a music biopic, it takes a risk by not following the traditional discovery-to-stardom arc, instead opting for a more nuanced exploration of the artist’s life. Ultimately, the film’s success will depend on the audience’s connection to Springsteen’s music and story.
