“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere,” released Oct. 24, follows the making of Bruce Springsteen’s album “Nebraska” and offers a look into a pivotal moment in the artist’s life. The movie guides viewers through Springsteen’s complicated relationship with his past as he grapples with his music and connections with other people. I’m no expert in film analysis or Springsteen, but I was inspired by the movie. The beautiful cinematography and the profound quiet offered me and fellow audience members an intimate display of humanity and life itself.

Springsteen’s initial recording of “Nebraska” was done from the quiet privacy of his bedroom. Eventually, Springsteen went to great lengths to release his version of the album rather than a studio re-recording. The rawness of the original tape is powerful, especially in an increasingly technical world where everything can be edited and perfected. The movie confronts what it means to make art regardless of whether it is imperfect, unconventional, or hard for others to understand. 

Watching Springsteen, played by Jeremy Allen White, as he wanders through his countryside home, I couldn’t help but think how rare that kind of solitude feels now. Even in moments when we are physically alone, we are never truly by ourselves. At all times, a screen is available to connect us instantly to thousands of people. 

Jeremy Strong plays Jon Landau, Springsteen’s manager. Their relationship is full of quiet tension and unspoken understanding, which particularly interested me. Landau isn’t just a manager but also a grounding presence throughout the film and in Springsteen’s life. He recognizes Springsteen’s brilliance even when he is unsure of himself. You can feel the care they have for each other and their work through the screen. 

“Springsteen”  isn’t a traditional Hollywood movie; it’s not filled with dramatic ups and downs. It is two hours of a man’s self-exploration: how he confronts who he is, where he comes from, and how he expresses himself. It allows the audience to think of what it means to connect meaningfully with yourself, your past, and the people who walk alongside you, even in quiet and uncertain moments. 

The movie has received mixed reviews. At the time of writing, it has a 60% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Many critics argue the movie doesn’t truly capture Springsteen’s story. While I can’t speak to how accurately Jeremy Allen White portrayed Springsteen, I can say I walked out of the theater feeling more connected to myself and the people I care about.

Featured image: 20th Century Studios