Why We Can't Stop Arguing About Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska'

Bruce Springsteen’s album Nebraska has long been a source of passionate debate among fans and critics alike. The recent biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere reignites these discussions by presenting new insights into the album's creation and legacy.

Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere Performance

The film opened to modest box office results, earning $16.1 million in its first weekend. While this might seem impressive, the production budget was a significant $55 million—a steep cost for a movie centered on an album recorded on a $400 tape deck. Critics have responded with sharply divided opinions.

A New Take on an Acoustic Classic

Electric Nebraska, portrayed in the film, offers fans a fresh perspective on the raw 1982 acoustic album, imagining how it might have evolved with input from the E Street Band. This reinterpretation adds fuel to the ongoing debates about the album’s artistic direction.

Enduring Debate and Cultural Impact

Much like Radiohead’s Kid A, which took a daring turn when released 18 months earlier, Nebraska delivers a rich ground for discussion, captivating audiences whether they appreciate or dislike its style.

In the film’s most humorous scene, Jimmy Iovine screams at manager Jon Landau over the phone, calling it “idiotic” to release such a folk record.

Iovine appears as himself in this moment, adding a layer of authenticity and wit. Another notable scene shows Landau preparing to play the album for Iovine and Stevie Nicks, although the film omits Stevie’s reaction to the record.

Notable Performances

Jeremy Allen White stars as Bruce Springsteen.
Jeremy Strong portrays Jon Landau.

Both deliver compelling performances that have Oscar buzz, highlighting the emotional depth behind the music and its impact.

Author’s summary: The film reignites debates about Springsteen's Nebraska, combining fresh perspectives with nuanced performances to explore the album's enduring enigma.

Rolling Stone — 2025-11-02