Jeremy Allen White Brings Bruce Springsteen to Life in "Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere"
Jeremy Allen White made a striking appearance at the New York Film Festival Spotlight Gala on September 28, where his latest film, Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere, captivated the audience. Directed by Scott Cooper, the film explores a pivotal moment in Bruce Springsteen’s career during the early 1980s, when he recorded the emotionally raw album Nebraska while simultaneously working on the demos that would later become the iconic Born in the U.S.A..
For White, taking on the role of the legendary musician was more than just an acting challenge—it was a deeply personal journey. “I feel proud, very excited,” he shared. When it came to performing Springsteen’s music, he admitted, “It was tough at the beginning. But you know what, he is such a good writer. And the same as being an actor—if you have good words in front of you, and the story is clear, the sentiment is clear. Something big will happen. Whether you can sing or not, if you can sing a song honestly, it's going to connect. And I think I was able to sing his songs with enough honesty that it made sense.”
This connection resonated with White in unexpected ways. When asked if the film made him reflect on his own relationship with his father, he responded, “Yes, of course.” He recalled recording “My Father’s House” for the first time in Nashville at RCA and calling his father afterward. “So much of this movie is about a young man longing for connection with his father—Bruce didn’t know how to get it, didn’t know how to start. And he's telling that story through his music. So, this year, I thought about my father a lot, absolutely.”
Challenges of Playing a Rock Legend
Embodying a musical icon like Springsteen came with its own set of challenges. When asked about the most difficult part of the role, White said, “Doing justice to the man who is loved by so many. And also learning to sing, learning the guitar, it was hard—I did not know how to do things before. I had to take lots of classes.”
Despite the hurdles, White’s performance earned praise from the legend himself. During the event, Springsteen was seen posing with White, offering his approval. “Jeremy, he just did a beautiful job,” Springsteen said, according to Men’s Journal. “As Scott Cooper says, he had the swagger of a rock star. And the camera read his internal life. That was really essential.”
A Raw and Emotional Story
Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere doesn’t shy away from the emotional depth of the singer’s life. The film delves into the raw edges of familial trauma, personal depression, and the delicate balance between rising fame and inner struggle. It offers a rare glimpse into the human side of a larger-than-life figure, showcasing why Springsteen has remained both a cultural icon and a relatable artist.
The film also features a powerful supporting cast, including Elizabeth Marvel, Stephen Graham, Gaby Hoffmann, and Odessa Young. Together, they help bring to life the complex narrative of Springsteen’s early career, highlighting the moments that shaped his music and his legacy.
Oscar Buzz and Upcoming Release
With its compelling storytelling and standout performances, the film is already generating Oscar buzz. Many are wondering if White could earn his first nomination for his portrayal of Springsteen. The film is set to hit theaters on October 24, 2025, and fans are eagerly anticipating its release.
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