The 39th edition of the AFI Fest will kick off on October 22 with the highly anticipated film, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere. This opening night feature showcases Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen during the recording of his iconic album, Nebraska, in 1981 and 1982. Directed by Scott Cooper, the film is based on the book by Warren Zanes and includes performances by notable actors such as Jeremy Strong, Paul Walter Hauser, Stephen Graham, Odessa Young, Gaby Hoffman, Marc Maron, and David Krumholtz.
In a statement, Cooper expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s a true honor to open AFI Fest with ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.’ AFI has always championed bold, meaningful storytelling, and I’m grateful to be part of that tradition.” He also acknowledged the profound influence of Los Angeles on Springsteen’s artistic journey, despite his deep roots in New Jersey.
AFI President and CEO Bob Gazzale commented on the festival’s significance, saying, “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.”
The festival will run until October 26, with the film set to be released in theaters on October 24. It is produced by 20th Century Studios, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company.
The AFI Fest remains a key event in the cinematic calendar, drawing attention to both emerging and established filmmakers. The opening night film promises to resonate with audiences, celebrating the life and music of one of America’s most cherished musicians.
As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for what this year will unveil, particularly with a focus on storytelling that reflects diverse experiences and perspectives. With a lineup of films that continue to push creative boundaries, AFI Fest reaffirms its commitment to showcasing the art of filmmaking at its finest.