When Bruce Springsteen finally approved a movie about a key moment in his life, fans were excited. The film, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere, directed by Scott Cooper and starring Jeremy Allen White as Springsteen, focuses on the making of his 1982 album Nebraska.
But the movie hasn’t done as well as expected at the box office. As of early November 2025, it has made only about $19.4 million worldwide—far below what 20th Century Studios had hoped.
A Different Kind of Biopic
Unlike most rock-star movies, this film doesn’t show a dramatic rise to fame or big concerts. Instead, it’s quiet and introspective, showing Springsteen in his early 30s recording Nebraska alone on a 4-track recorder in New Jersey.
Springsteen called it an “anti-biopic,” saying the story focuses on inner struggles and creativity, not on fame or big hits. Director Scott Cooper praised Jeremy Allen White for capturing Springsteen’s vulnerability and authenticity.
What Critics and Fans Think
Critics were mixed. Some loved the quiet, emotional portrayal of Springsteen’s creative process, while others found it slow and uneventful. One critic even called it “a big ol’ snooze.”
Opening weekend (U.S.): $9.1 million
Rotten Tomatoes score: ~60%
Audience rating (CinemaScore): B+
The movie also faced tough comparisons. Big music biopics like Bohemian Rhapsody or Elvis are full of drama and spectacle, while Deliver Me From Nowhere is calm and reflective.
Why the Box Office Struggled
Several factors may explain the low numbers:
Quiet story – It focuses on a lesser-known album and a low-key period in Springsteen’s life.
Minimal spectacle – No big concerts or dramatic rise to fame.
Audience expectations – Casual moviegoers might want more action and hits.
Competition – Other movies released at the same time drew attention away.
Global appeal – Springsteen is famous, but not every international audience knows his music well.
Who Will Enjoy It
For die-hard Springsteen fans, the film is a rare look inside his creative world. It shows the fears, drive, and artistry behind the music.
If you’re looking for a big, exciting rock-star movie, this isn’t it. But if you want to see the Boss at a turning point in his life, Deliver Me From Nowhere quietly delivers what it promises.