Bruce Springsteen’s popular song leads to overlooked 1980s film
not a die-hard fan of Bruce Springsteen, Scott Cooper’s film “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” offers plenty of surprises and interesting details about the rock legend’s career. The movie delves into a critical moment in Springsteen’s life when he faced the pressures of skyrocketing fame and struggled with depression. Cooper’s work is not just a biopic but also a treasure trove of curious facts that make you ponder alternate realities where Springsteen made different career choices.
One fascinating what-if scenario highlighted in the film is director Paul Schrader’s offer of a starring role to Springsteen in a movie titled “Born in the U.S.A.” In 1981, Springsteen was already a charismatic performer on stage, leading Schrader to believe he could transition seamlessly into acting, following in the footsteps of icons like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Although Springsteen declined the role, he found inspiration in the film’s title, eventually producing a hit song that he offered as repayment to Schrader.
Springsteen’s decision not to star in Schrader’s film paved the way for the creation of the record-breaking album “Born in the U.S.A.,” which catapulted him to global stardom. This album marked a pivotal moment in Springsteen’s career, solidifying his status as a musical icon and shaping the trajectory of his future work.
In the realm of Hollywood, the 1987 film “Light of Day” directed by Schrader stands out as an example of a commercial endeavor featuring Michael J. Fox and Joan Jett as the leads of a Cleveland bar band. Despite Fox and Jett’s earnest attempts to portray their characters authentically, the standout performance in the film comes from veteran actress Gena Rowlands. “Light of Day” may not have been a critical darling, but it succeeded in delivering an engaging narrative and memorable moments, culminating in a poignant scene where Fox and Jett unite in a musical performance of the Springsteen-penned title track.
The movie serves as a testament to the diverging paths taken by Springsteen and Schrader in their respective artistic careers. While Springsteen found massive success in the music industry, Schrader remained committed to his distinctive style of filmmaking, carving out a niche for himself with challenging and thought-provoking projects. Despite their different trajectories, both artists managed to leave a lasting impact on their respective fields, showcasing the enduring power of creativity and perseverance.
“Light of Day” hints at the alternate reality where Springsteen could have ventured into acting, providing a glimpse into a parallel universe where his career might have taken a different turn. The film’s conclusion, featuring a powerful musical performance by Fox and Jett, encapsulates the spirit of collaboration and passion that defines Springsteen’s own artistic journey. It is a reminder of the boundless possibilities that arise when artists push the boundaries of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges.