21 August, 2025
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The 39th edition of AFI Fest will launch with the eagerly anticipated film, ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere’, on October 22, 2023. This film portrays the life of legendary musician Bruce Springsteen during the early 1980s as he records his critically acclaimed album, ‘Nebraska’.

Directed by Scott Cooper, the film features Jeremy Allen White in the role of Springsteen, along with a talented cast including Jeremy Strong, Paul Walter Hauser, Stephen Graham, Odessa Young, Gaby Hoffman, Marc Maron, and David Krumholtz. The film is adapted from Warren Zanes’ book of the same name, which explores the complexities and influences on Springsteen’s artistry.

In a statement, Scott Cooper expressed his excitement about the festival, saying, “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 emphasized the significance of Los Angeles in shaping Springsteen’s artistic voice, despite the musician’s New Jersey roots.

The AFI Fest serves as a platform for diverse storytelling, with AFI President and CEO Bob Gazzale noting, “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 from October 22 to October 26, 2023, culminating in a series of screenings that showcase both emerging and established filmmakers. Following its festival premiere, ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere’ will be released in theaters on October 24, 2023.

The film is produced by 20th Century Studios, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, further highlighting the significant investment in high-quality storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.

As AFI Fest gears up for its opening night, anticipation builds not only for the film but also for the rich array of cinematic experiences that lie ahead in the festival’s lineup.