EXCLUSIVE: In a move that signals a shift in direction at Disney live action and 20th Century Studios, former Searchlight co-head David Greenbaum has made a bold statement with his first major purchase, set to the iconic music of Bruce Springsteen’s groundbreaking album Nebraska. 20th Century has sealed a deal to finance and release Deliver Me from Nowhere, a narrative film written and directed by Scott Cooper, featuring Emmy-winning The Bear star Jeremy Allen White portraying The Boss in a pivotal moment of his life. Exploring personal struggles and the journey to stardom, Springsteen’s Nebraska album, released in 1982, stands out as one of the most emotionally raw and honest pieces of music in recent history.
When news broke that the project was in the works, A24 was initially expected to distribute. However, Greenbaum and 20th head Steve Asbell, both avid Springsteen fans, were determined to secure the film. Following a fierce bidding war between distributors, Greenbaum’s passion for the project prevailed, ensuring a fall shoot and a global theatrical release through Disney’s extensive channels.
Jeremy Allen White, fresh off his Emmy win for The Bear, will wrap up filming Season 4 in June before diving into his role as The Boss. With Scott Stuber producing alongside Gotham Group’s Ellen Goldsmith-Vein & Eric Robinson, the stage is set for a captivating cinematic experience.
The genesis of the project traces back to Springsteen’s album Nebraska, a deeply personal exploration of darkness and introspection. As Springsteen grappled with his own demons, the album took shape in a bedroom in Colts Neck, NJ, capturing the essence of his struggles and experiences. Each track on Nebraska is a poignant reflection of pivotal life moments, following the success of his previous albums Born to Run, Darkness on the Edge of Town, and The River.
Springsteen’s involvement in the film project, featuring music from The River, Nebraska, and Born in the USA, marks a new chapter in his storied career. Cooper and Greenbaum’s collaboration builds on their past successes, setting the stage for a compelling narrative that delves into the heart of Springsteen’s music and legacy.
Represented by CAA, Cooper and Springsteen, along with White’s team at WME and Entertainment 360, are poised to bring this cinematic journey to life. The partnership between Greenbaum, Stuber, Goldsmith-Vein, and Robinson promises a film that will resonate with audiences on a profound level.
