The captivating journey of Bruce Springsteen's artistic evolution is illuminated in the film 'Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere,' where the influence of classic cinema takes center stage. The movie delves into the musician's personal struggles and the profound impact of two iconic films: 'Badlands' and 'The Night of the Hunter.' These cinematic masterpieces not only shaped Springsteen's character but also became integral to the narrative of the film itself.
The film's director, Scott Cooper, masterfully showcases how movies can be a powerful source of inspiration for artists, transcending different mediums. In the case of 'Nebraska,' Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album, Cooper highlights the role of these films in helping Springsteen confront and understand his inner turmoil. The album's personal lyrics and themes are intricately linked to the narratives of these cinematic classics.
One of the key examples is 'The Night of the Hunter,' a film that left a lasting impression on Springsteen. The scene where the character of 'Preacher' Harry Powell explains his hand tattoos, symbolizing love and hate, resonates deeply with the musician. This iconic moment is reflected in the lyrics of 'Cautious Man' from Springsteen's 1987 album 'Tunnel of Love.' The film's skewed portrayal of American values, particularly masculinity and religion, likely influenced the artist's songs, adding depth to his musical storytelling.
'Badlands,' directed by Terrence Malick, is another pivotal film in Springsteen's creative process. The movie's lyricism and personal narrative inspired the musician to delve into his own inner troubles. The film's connection to real-life spree killers Charles Starkweather and Caril Ann Fugate served as a catalyst for Springsteen's song 'Nebraska,' originally titled 'Starkweather.' The change from third-person to first-person lyrics symbolizes Springsteen's shift from running away to confronting his personal struggles.
The influence of these films on Springsteen's work is undeniable. 'Badlands' and 'The Night of the Hunter' not only shaped his music but also his personal journey. Through 'Deliver Me From Nowhere,' Cooper emphasizes the power of art to inspire and transform, inviting audiences to appreciate the intricate relationship between cinema and music.
