Bruce Springsteen supports new movie about making of ‘Nebraska’
It’s E Street approved.
The Scott Cooper (“Crazy Heart”) directed “Deliver Me from Nowhere,” a film about the making of Bruce Springsteen’s 1982 solo album “Nebraska,” has the backing of Springsteen and his manager Jon Landau.
“Warren Zanes’ ‘Deliver Me From Nowhere ‘is one of the best books ever written about Bruce Springsteen and his music,” said Landau in a statement distributed by Springsteen publicist on Monday, April 8. “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.
“Scott, with producers Ellen Goldsmith-Vein and Eric Robinson at the Gotham Group, and Scott Stuber are bringing together a superb team to ensure that this project has the vision and soul that have been the hallmark of Bruce’s 55-year career,” Landau added. “We’re thrilled to have the wholehearted commitment and support of the entire team at 20th and Disney.”
The film will be based on Zanes’ recent book, “Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska.” Jeremy Allen White, star of “The Bear,” is the frontrunner to star as Springsteen.
“It is a once-in-a-lifetime honor to be collaborating with Bruce Springsteen, an inspiring and incomparable artist who represents so much to so many,” said David Greenbaum, president, Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios, in a statement. “The deep authenticity of his story is in great hands with my friend Scott Cooper, whom I am thrilled to be collaborating with once again.”
Cooper is also writing the screenplay. His other
movies include or “Hostiles” and “Out of the Furnace.”
“I once read that ‘Nebraska’ is an album that moves you to the marrow of your bones. I couldn’t agree more,” said Cooper in a statement. “Bruce Springsteen, and ‘Nebraska’ in particular, have had a profound impact on me and my work. 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.”
The “Nebraska” album is composed of demos Springsteen recorded on Teac 4-track recorder in a Colts Neck house.
The original intent was to record and release the songs with the E Street Band, but the decision was made to leave them as they were. It has since become a classic and is largely credited with kicking-off the lo-fi indie rock movement.
Production of the film is expected to begin in the fall.
Subscribe to app.com for the latest on the New Jersey music scene.
Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at @chrisfhjordan; cjordan@app.com