Springsteen biopic struggles to balance emotional depth and a monotonous tone.
Bruce Springsteen, a titan of rock music, has recently found his life depicted on the silver screen in the biographical film “Deliver Me From Nowhere.” Directed by Scott Cooper, the film centers on Springsteen during a particularly pivotal moment in his career: the making of his 1982 album “Nebraska.” This approach contrasts sharply with the high-energy sensation associated with his later landmark album “Born in the USA,” released in 1984.
The film features Jeremy Allen White, known for his acclaimed role in “The Bear,” portraying the enigmatic artist himself. Joining him is Jeremy Strong, celebrated for his work in “Succession,” who plays Jon Landau, Springsteen’s manager and staunch advocate. As of recent assessments, “Deliver Me From Nowhere” has garnered a 66% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a favorable score of 62 on Metacritic, signaling a mixed reception from audiences and critics alike.
Critics have offered a range of perspectives on the film, with the San Francisco Chronicle labeling it “an endless mope” that falls short of revealing the artist behind the music, despite White’s credible performance capturing Springsteen’s essence. The Boston Globe’s review criticized the film for relying on predictable clichés that could have impeded what might otherwise have been a compelling narrative about creativity and inspiration. Similarly, the Daily Beast described the film as a predictable collection of genre conventions, reflecting a missed opportunity for a deeper exploration of Springsteen’s complex character.
In stark contrast to these critiques, the San Jose Mercury News offered a more nuanced interpretation, awarding the film 3.5 out of 4 stars and emphasizing its “deeply introspective” nature. The review praised the film’s exploration of the intricate relationship between creativity and depression, a recurring theme in Springsteen’s work. RogerEbert.com echoed this sentiment, calling it a “soulful and meditative character study.”
Despite the mixed critical reception, several outlets, including The Wrap, praised “Deliver Me From Nowhere” for presenting a more human portrayal of Springsteen, rather than lauding him solely as a rock icon. The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the film’s integrity in depicting Springsteen as a complex figure wrestling with his vulnerabilities while maintaining artistic commitment.
“Deliver Me From Nowhere” premieres in theaters nationwide following its debut at the New York Film Festival, allowing audiences to decide for themselves whether the film does justice to the legacy of one of rock’s most influential artists. As reactions continue to evolve, the film stands as an intriguing exploration of an artist navigating both personal and professional landscapes.
