Jeremy Allen White is fabulous in “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere,” although the script is very narrow, focusing on his loss of self and inner reflection of who Bruce really was, also the period when he wrote the album Nebraska—written and directed by Academy Award winner Scott Cooper of 2009’s “Crazy Heart” fame that garnered Jeff Bridges his Academy Award. He based the script on the 2023 book, Deliver Me from Nowhere by Warren Zanes, as well as some elements from Springsteen’s autobiography “Born to Run. Chronicling Springsteen’s personal and professional battles during the conception of his 1982 album “Nebraska.”
The main issue with this biographical film is that it focuses too much on Bruce Springsteen’s darker days, which might alienate viewers unfamiliar with his story. Instead of providing a balanced view, the film dives into a prolonged exploration of his struggles, which can become wearisome over its two-hour run time. The good news is that Jeremy Strong, portraying Springsteen’s manager, Jon delivers an Oscar-worthy performance. Additionally, Stephen Graham, known for his role in the Emmy-winning series “Adolescence,” plays Bruce’s father, is also excellent. He grapples with alcoholism, bipolar disorder, and mental illness. We also learn that Bruce endured emotional and physical abuse from his father, who not only beat him but also abused his wife, creating an atmosphere of fear in their household.
The film’s pace is meandering, even slow at times; we trapse through moments that shaped his life and the inspirations that formed Bruce Springsteen’s creative life, while concurrently portraying the indolence of being in a depressive state. Resolving all of these factors with an empathic touch is Landau, Bruce’s manager and friend. Honestly, I was thankful he had this guy in the corner, as depression can take deep turns very quickly. Yes, I can recommend this film, though be prepared for a different kind of biopic, as the film’s unique focus on the social and emotional aspects of Bruce’s life will keep you engaged and interested.
In full discloser, I sat next to Jeremy during a Critics Choice dinner when he was nominated for Best TV actor for “Shameless.”He’s a talented actor and I had no doubts that he would go one to star in film as well.
Sarah Knight Adamson and Jeremy Allen White (Critics Choice Dinner 2022).
Sarah Knight Adamson© November 6, 2025