Jeremy Allen White Shines in New Bruce Springsteen Biopic

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Actor Jeremy Allen White delivers a committed performance as Bruce Springsteen in a new biopic that struggles to balance music mythology with emotional drama. The film explores Springsteen’s journey from New Jersey to Los Angeles as he grapples with his identity and relationships.

The narrative takes a turn when Springsteen seeks therapy in LA, illustrating his battle to find authenticity amid the pressures of fame. The film, while capturing moments of insight, often falls into clichés, showcasing scenes filled with expositional dialogue such as, “I’m just trying to find something real in the noise!” and “It’s like he’s channeling something deeply personal!”

White, who portrays the iconic musician, navigates his role with intelligence. Co-stars include Jeremy Strong as Jon Landau, Springsteen’s manager, and Stephen Graham as his troubled father, Douglas. Their dynamic culminates in a poignant scene where Douglas, filled with regret, asks Bruce to sit on his knee, a request Bruce gently declines, noting he’s never done that, even as a child.

The film focuses on a critical moment in Springsteen’s career—the recording of his 1982 acoustic album, Nebraska. This work came at a time when Springsteen’s record company was supportive, banking on his upcoming hit, “Born in the USA.” The album draws influence from various sources, including author Flannery O’Connor and notorious criminal Charles Starkweather, reflecting themes of home and personal struggle.

Notably, the narrative introduces Faye Romano, an imaginary character portrayed by Odessa Young. Faye, who claims to be the sister of an old neighborhood friend and has a daughter from a previous relationship, becomes a significant figure in Bruce’s life. Although he shares moments of genuine connection with her, he ultimately leaves her behind—raising questions about the impact of his departure on her daughter, who views Bruce as a potential father figure.

While the film showcases a well-intentioned portrayal of Springsteen’s life, it tends to veer into fan fiction territory, struggling to break free from musical biopic tropes.