Bruce Springsteen fans are treated to a deluxe, insightful, and immersive documentary by Thom Zimny, a longtime chronicler of the iconic musician. The film follows Bruce and the E Street Band on their recent world tour, which will soon return to the UK and Europe, possibly coinciding with the Glastonbury weekend. Springsteen himself takes on a more reserved role, contributing voiceovers reminiscent of his Springsteen on Broadway show. Meanwhile, his bandmates offer more candid insights as they prepare for and deliver performances on their first tour in six years, a hiatus partly due to the Covid pandemic.
The documentary captures a humorous moment during rehearsals when drummer Max Weinberg dryly notes the slower pace of the song “She’s the One” after the band’s time away. However, they quickly shake off the rust, with Steve Van Zandt emphasizing their desire to deliver unforgettable performances rather than just going through the motions. As they hit the road, Zimny skillfully blends concert footage, archival material, and sociological observations.
The film shines during the electrifying performances, allowing viewers to appreciate details up close: from Springsteen’s ecstatic guitar solos to the powerful crescendos of the music. While some songs may feel lackluster on screen compared to the stadium experience, the documentary offers in-depth analysis of other tracks, such as their soulful rendition of the Commodores’ “Nightshift” and the improvisational prowess of backing vocalist Curtis King Jr. It also highlights Springsteen’s deliberate setlist structure, juxtaposing themes of mortality with energetic hits to remind audiences of life’s fleeting nature.
During my experience at the Hyde Park concert, surrounded by a mix of fans and unlikely attendees like investment bankers and politicians, I witnessed the unwavering devotion of Springsteen’s die-hard followers. Zimny captures this dedicated fanbase through brief but impactful interviews in various cities, showcasing their passion for the music. While the film could delve deeper into this community, akin to Jeremy Deller’s exploration of Depeche Mode fans, Zimny’s approach, though less experimental, effectively weaves together archival footage and present-day moments, highlighting the band’s enduring commitment to rocking out and inspiring audiences.
“Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band” premieres on Disney+ on October 25th.