The 39th edition of AFI Fest will commence with a spotlight on music legend Bruce Springsteen. The festival has officially announced that the opening night film will be “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.” This film explores Springsteen’s life during the early 1980s, focusing on the recording of his critically acclaimed album, “Nebraska.”
Directed by Scott Cooper, the movie features Jeremy Allen White in the lead role, portraying Springsteen during a pivotal period of his career. The cast also includes notable actors such as Jeremy Strong, Paul Walter Hauser, Stephen Graham, Odessa Young, Gaby Hoffman, Marc Maron, and David Krumholtz. The film is based on Warren Zanes’ book, which shares insights into Springsteen’s journey and artistry.
Festival Details and Significance
The opening night of AFI Fest is set for October 22, 2023, with the festival running until October 26, 2023. “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere” will hit theaters on October 24.
In a statement, Cooper expressed his gratitude for the honor of kicking off the festival, stating, “AFI has always championed bold, meaningful storytelling, and I’m grateful to be part of that tradition.” He acknowledged the significance of Los Angeles in shaping Springsteen’s artistic voice while highlighting the singer’s deep roots in New Jersey.
Bob Gazzale, President and CEO of AFI, also commented on the importance of the festival’s opening film. He noted, “AFI Fest is the stage and the screens where the world’s stories come together in Hollywood. To open with ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere’ honors the global impact of an American icon and the true artistry it takes to tell his tale.”
This year’s festival promises to be a celebration of storytelling, bringing together diverse narratives and perspectives from around the world. With the spotlight on Springsteen, AFI Fest aims to highlight both the artistic and cultural significance of one of America’s most beloved musicians.
As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for an event that not only showcases films but also honors the stories that shape our understanding of art and music.
