The Man Who Fell to Earth Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

David Bowie arrives on Earth, gets rich selling alien tech, then gets addicted to gin and TV and forgets about saving his planet…typical Tuesday, right?

🍿 The Man Who Fell to Earth: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Arrival and Business Venture

Thomas Jerome Newton, an alien from a drought-stricken planet, arrives on Earth seeking water. Posing as a human, he uses his advanced knowledge to secure patents, quickly amassing wealth with the help of lawyer Oliver Farnsworth. Together, they form World Enterprises, a high-tech corporation designed to fund Newton’s mission to transport water back to his dying world. Newton’s advanced technology and rapid rise attract attention. He maintains a reclusive persona, fueling curiosity and suspicion from both business rivals and government agencies. This secrecy adds to the film’s sense of mystery and impending doom.

Relationship with Mary-Lou and the Allure of Earth

While establishing his business, Newton meets Mary-Lou, a hotel maid, who becomes his lover and guide to human customs. She introduces him to television and alcohol, which gradually consume him, distracting him from his original purpose. His growing dependence on these earthly pleasures begins to erode his alien resolve. As Newton becomes more accustomed to human life, he struggles to balance his mission with his growing emotional attachment to Mary-Lou and the allure of Earthly vices. This internal conflict highlights the corrupting influence of human society.

Betrayal and Imprisonment

As Newton nears completion of his spacecraft, his true identity is discovered. He is betrayed by those closest to him, including scientist Nathan Bryce, and subsequently captured by government agents. Newton is imprisoned in a luxurious, isolated apartment and subjected to constant medical examinations. During his captivity, Newton’s spirit is broken. He becomes increasingly dependent on alcohol, further distancing himself from his mission and highlighting the themes of isolation and the destructive nature of power.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Thomas Jerome Newton (David Bowie): An alien who comes to Earth seeking to transport water to his dying planet, but becomes corrupted by human vices and government interference.
• Mary-Lou (Candy Clark): A hotel maid who becomes Newton’s lover and introduces him to human customs, ultimately leading to both their downfalls.
• Nathan Bryce (Rip Torn): A college professor and scientist who helps Newton develop his technologies, but also becomes suspicious of his true nature.
• Oliver Farnsworth (Buck Henry): A patent lawyer who assists Newton in establishing his business empire but is later killed due to Newton’s activities.
• Peters (Bernie Casey): A government agent who investigates and ultimately imprisons Newton, thwarting his mission.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Thomas Jerome Newton: “Ask me… The question you’ve been wanting to ask ever since we met.” – Newton challenges Nathan Bryce to ask what he truly wants to know, hinting at his otherworldly nature.
• Thomas Jerome Newton: “I come from England.” – Newton’s wry response to Bryce’s absurd question, showcasing his dry humor and evasion.
• Mary-Lou: “Well you’re really hooked on water, aren’t you?” – Mary-Lou’s naive observation of Newton’s fascination with water, unaware of its vital importance to his survival.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1.5M
• Domestic Gross: $100,072
• Worldwide Gross: $167,072

💥 The Man Who Fell to Earth Reviews

Personal Review

I first watched this film late one night, and it completely blew my mind. Bowie’s portrayal of an alien lost on Earth is incredibly moving and unsettling. The visuals are stunning, and the story, while confusing at times, really got under my skin. It’s one of those movies that stays with you long after you’ve seen it. I love how it explores the themes of alienation and the dark side of humanity.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of David Bowie”
  • “Viewers interested in arthouse science fiction”
  • “Those who enjoy thought-provoking and visually stunning films”
  • “Adults who appreciate complex narratives and challenging themes”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic nudity and sexual content”
  • “Drug and alcohol abuse”
  • “Mature themes and disturbing imagery”

Professional Reviews

• The Hollywood Reporter: “Roeg crafts a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience, driven by Bowie’s captivating performance. The film explores themes of alienation and corruption with a unique, artistic style that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s not always easy to digest, but it’s undeniably powerful.
• Variety: “A challenging and unconventional sci-fi film that prioritizes atmosphere and symbolism over a straightforward narrative. Bowie embodies the alien outsider perfectly, but the film’s pacing and ambiguous storyline may not appeal to all viewers. Still, its visual flair and thematic depth are undeniable.
• Sight & Sound: “Nicolas Roeg’s masterpiece is a haunting exploration of otherness and the corrosive effects of consumer culture. Bowie’s ethereal presence and Roeg’s innovative filmmaking create a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. It remains a landmark in science fiction cinema.

Audience Reactions

Bowie’s otherworldly performance as the alien is mesmerizing and perfectly cast.: Viewers praise the film’s stunning visuals and atmospheric tone.

The film’s exploration of alienation and the corrupting influence of Earth culture resonates deeply with many viewers.: Fans appreciate the film’s thought-provoking themes and artistic style.

Overall Consensus: A visually striking and thought-provoking cult classic that explores themes of alienation and corruption, though its ambiguous narrative may not appeal to all viewers.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “David Bowie has stated that he drew heavily on his own feelings of alienation and drug use during the 1970s to inform his performance as Thomas Jerome Newton.”
• “The film’s visual style and fragmented narrative structure were heavily influenced by director Nicolas Roeg’s background as a cinematographer.”
• “The film was temporarily scored with music from Pink Floyd’s album “The Dark Side of the Moon.””
• “Several scenes were filmed in White Sands National Monument, New Mexico, providing the film with its stark and otherworldly landscapes.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Man Who Fell to Earth?

As a cult classic, ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’ is available through various streaming and purchase options. Check platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and other VOD services for rental or purchase availability. Physical copies on Blu-ray and DVD can also be found through online retailers like Amazon.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Man Who Fell to Earth, you might like these similar films:

• Stalker (1979): Both films explore themes of existentialism, isolation, and the human condition through a science fiction lens, creating a sense of unease and mystery.
• Under the Skin (2013): Features an alien in human form exploring Earth and struggling with identity and connection.
• Solaris (1972): Deals with isolation, identity, and the unknowable through a science fiction setting, offering a similarly philosophical and melancholic experience.
• Arrival (2016): Explores communication with extraterrestrial beings and the profound impact on human understanding, offering a thought-provoking and emotional experience.

🛒 The Man Who Fell to Earth Related Products

• The Man Who Fell to Earth (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]: A beautifully restored version of the film with exclusive bonus content, including interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. A must-have for serious collectors.
• David Bowie – The Man Who Fell To Earth – Movie Poster Print (24×36): High-quality poster print showcasing the iconic imagery of the film. A great way to decorate any fan’s living space.
• David Bowie: A Life: This critically acclaimed biography delves into the life and career of David Bowie, including his iconic role in ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’.
• Gin Making Kit: Distill your own unique Gin Blend! Comes with Juniper Berries and Spice Blends. Perfect for a Gin and Tonic!

🎧 Soundtrack

The Man Who Fell to Earth features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Poker Dice” – performed by Stomu Yamashta

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The Man Who Fell To Earth Review

Want a quick take on ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’? This review gets straight to the point in under a minute – see if you agree with their verdict, I personally think it has some fair points!

Folding Ideas – The Man Who Fell to Earth

Looking for a really insightful breakdown of ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’? This video essay goes deep into the movie’s themes and meanings, so you will learn something for sure.

5 Underrated Sci Fi Movies of the 1970s – Mind Blowing

‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’ is considered underrated, but why? This video puts it in the context of other overlooked sci-fi gems from the 70s, and it actually makes a great case!

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