A new film titled “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere” delves into the life of renowned musician Bruce Springsteen, featuring a compelling performance by Jeremy Allen White. Directed by Scott Cooper, the movie explores a pivotal period in Springsteen’s career, focusing on his introspective retreat in 1981 following the success of his album “The River.” Instead of producing new material, Springsteen secluded himself in Colts Neck, New Jersey, where he faced personal struggles that led to the creation of his iconic lo-fi album, “Nebraska.”
The film captures the duality of Springsteen’s public persona as a rock icon and his private battles with depression. Jeremy Strong, known for his role in “Succession,” portrays Jon Landau, Springsteen’s long-time manager and friend. The story not only navigates the musician’s tumultuous early life but also examines his quest for authenticity amidst fame.
Costuming Collaboration with Bruce Springsteen
Costume director Kasia Walicka Maimone, who has worked on notable projects such as “The Gilded Age” and “Moonrise Kingdom,” emphasized the significance of Springsteen’s involvement in the production. In a recent interview with CNN, she described how the team prepared thoroughly before meeting the artist.
“Bruce was pretty involved, and it was amazing to spend time with him,” Maimone stated. “The way he can communicate emotion and tell stories that resonate is, to me, like religion.” The collaboration required a shift from admiration to teamwork, as they aimed to authentically portray Springsteen’s essence.
Maimone highlighted that Springsteen had specific preferences regarding his clothing, distinguishing between everyday wear and items used for performances or photoshoots. “We were continuously breaking through the levels of intimacy and discovering those super private moments and pieces that were significant,” she noted. The film features garments from Springsteen’s actual wardrobe, including a Triumph Motorcycles T-shirt and a delicate blue and white plaid shirt from the early 1980s, which holds sentimental value for him.
Enduring Legacy and Cultural Significance
Forty-five years after the release of “Nebraska,” Springsteen remains a cultural icon, having sold over 140 million records and won 20 Grammy Awards. His enduring style—denim, leather jackets, and flannel shirts—resonates with his fans, symbolizing a blue-collar identity.
Patricia Mears, deputy director of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, remarked on Springsteen’s appeal, stating, “He’s not consciously stylish, but he is authentically working class, which is where the bulk of his audience is from too.” His clothing choices reflect a relatable image of hard work and resilience, striking a chord with fans from similar backgrounds.
Springsteen’s style is also intertwined with his political views and patriotism, as seen in the iconic imagery of the “Born In The USA” album cover, which features a red, white, and blue aesthetic. Mears pointed out that Springsteen maintains a connection with his working-class roots, supporting workers while avoiding elitism, which helps him resonate with a diverse audience.
Fashion historian Nancy Deihl shared her observations from her upbringing in New Jersey, recalling how Springsteen’s style was perceived before his rise to fame. While some viewed his look as unpolished, she recognized it as a representation of socio-economic realities, reinforcing the messages within his music.
As fashion evolves, Springsteen’s workwear aesthetic has influenced contemporary styles, with brands like Carhartt and Dickies embodying similar themes. Maimone noted that it was essential to capture how Springsteen wears his clothes, which adds to their charisma.
“Jeremy was becoming, you know, the channeler of Bruce Springsteen’s spirit,” Maimone said. White’s portrayal aims to reflect Springsteen’s natural ease and confidence, which translates into a believable performance. Springsteen himself acknowledged White’s approach, stating, “Jeremy didn’t try to do any sort of impression. He simply inhabited my inner life.”
“Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere” not only highlights the artist’s music and struggles but also invites audiences to connect with the man behind the legend. Through the lens of fashion and personal history, the film reveals a deeper understanding of Springsteen’s enduring influence in the music world and beyond.
