April 09, 2024
Dan MacMedan/USA TODAY
Jeremy Allen White, the award-winning actor best known for his role in 'The Bear,' will star as Bruce Springsteen in the movie 'Deliver Me From Nowhere.' The film is being written and directed by Scott Cooper.
An upcoming movie about the Boss has found its studio and its lead.
Jeremy Allen White, the award-winning actor best known for "The Bear," is set to play Bruce Springsteen in a film depicting a pivotal moment in the iconic musician's career – the making of his 1982 album "Nebraska."
20th Century Studios beat out A24 in a bid to finance and release the film, according to Deadline. Scott Cooper will write and direct the film, which is based on the 2023 book "Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska" by Warren Zanes. Cooper's filmography includes the 2009 drama "Crazy Heart," which was inspired by country singer Hank Thompson and won lead actor Jeff Bridges an Oscar.
"Nebraska" is considered a turning point in Springsteen's career. Originally intended to be a rock album recorded with the E Street Band, it became a minimalist folk album showcasing an emotionally raw tone from Jersey's favorite son. Among the album's tracks are "Atlantic City," "Johnny 99" and "Highway Patrolman."
Springsteen and his longtime manager Jon Landau will be directly involved with the film's production, which is expected to begin this fall.
"Warren Zanes' 'Deliver Me from Nowhere' is one of the best books ever written about Bruce Springsteen and his music," Landau said in a statement to Variety. "Bruce and I are thrilled that Scott Cooper has chosen to write and direct the film based on that book — we think he's the perfect filmmaker for the job."
"I once read that 'Nebraska' is an album that moves you to the marrow of your bones. I couldn't agree more," Cooper said. "Through themes of despair, disillusionment, and the struggles of everyday Americans, Bruce has formed an unparalleled legacy, painting an unflinching portrait of the human condition.
"Yet, amidst the darkness, a sense of resilience and a sense of hope shines through, reflecting an indomitable spirit. That's the Bruce I've come to know and love and will honor with this film."
Along with songs from "Nebraska," the adaptation of "Deliver Me from Nowhere" will feature songs from Springsteen albums "The River" and "Born in the USA."
