Film director Scott Cooper and writer Warren Zanes reveal the making of 'Deliver Me from Nowhere,' a biopic focusing on Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album 'Nebraska,' detailing Springsteen's unprecedented approval, the challenges of adapting the solitary creative process to film, and actor Jeremy Allen White's demanding portrayal of The Boss.
The article details the creation of 'Deliver Me from Nowhere,' a biopic centered on Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album 'Nebraska.' Director Scott Cooper and writer Warren Zanes recount how they secured Springsteen's rare approval for a film about his life, a feat he had resisted since 1986. Their screenplay, based on Zanes' book, delves into 'Nebraska,' a stark, lo-fi collection of home recordings made during Springsteen's battle with depression, released between his No. 1 album 'The River' and the global phenomenon 'Born in the USA.' The album's themes explored dark subjects like serial killers and his strained relationship with his father, prompting his manager to suggest psychiatric help. Filming 'Nebraska''s solitary creative process presented unique cinematic challenges, which Cooper discussed with Springsteen and his manager Jon Landau during a nerve-wracking script reading at Springsteen's home. Despite his peptic ulcer, Springsteen was enthusiastic, eventually hugging Cooper and giving his full blessing. Unlike other artists, Springsteen actively promoted the film, visiting sets and festivals, explaining his participation by saying, 'I’m old and I don’t give a fuck what I do now.' Jeremy Allen White, cast as Springsteen, faced immense pressure. A non-musician, he underwent months of training to master guitar and vocals, then had to perform as Springsteen in front of the legend himself. White initially felt paralyzed by the responsibility but eventually found his way by focusing on the character's internal struggles as a young musician on the brink of stardom. Springsteen rarely interacted on set but sent validating texts, highlighting 'true or honest' moments in White's performance, which helped him overcome doubt and feel permission to embody the role. The article also explores 'Nebraska''s historical significance, released at the dawn of the digital era, contrasting sharply with the pop-oriented 'Born in the USA' that followed. Zanes emphasizes its enduring influence as 'the big bang of indie rock,' inspiring countless lo-fi, DIY artists. More broadly, he argues 'Nebraska' serves as a modern emblem of authenticity and embracing imperfection in a world increasingly curated by social media and digital tools. The film, starring White and Odessa Young, is set for release on October 24.
