The Man Who Fell to Earth

The Man Who Fell to Earth

Year: 1976

Runtime: 139 min

Language: English

Director: Nicolas Roeg

Sci-FiDrama

A cosmic odyssey unfolds as an otherworldly visitor navigates human society, seeking connection and rescue in Nicolas Roeg's visually stunning and formally bold sci-fi drama. David Bowie shines in his acting debut, fully inhabiting the enigmatic title role, while supporting cast members Candy Clark, Buck Henry, and Rip Torn deliver standout performances.

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Timeline & Setting – The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film's events appear to unfold in a contemporary setting, reflecting the social and technological dynamics of the 1970s. Issues such as corporate greed, addiction, and the search for personal connection resonate throughout the narrative.

Location

New Mexico, Oklahoma

New Mexico is known for its stunning desert landscapes, which serve as a backdrop for Thomas Jerome Newton's arrival on Earth. Oklahoma, represented by Mary-Lou, offers a contrasting urban setting with its hotels and diverse job opportunities, showcasing the stark differences in their lives.

🏜️ Desert 🏠 Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:29

Main Characters – The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
Meet the key characters of The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Thomas Jerome Newton (David Bowie)

Thomas Jerome Newton presents a complex character torn between his alien origins and his newfound life on Earth. Despite his wealth and advanced technology, he grapples with addiction and emotional struggles, ultimately showcasing the vulnerability beneath his enigmatic exterior.

👽 Alien 🧠 Genius

Mary-Lou (Candy Clark)

Mary-Lou is portrayed as a lonely young woman searching for connection amidst her part-time jobs. Her attraction to Newton brings out her desire for adventure, but she struggles with the reality of their relationship and the impact of time on her love and identity.

💔 Heartbreak 🌊 Searcher

Dr. Nathan Bryce (Rip Torn)

Dr. Nathan Bryce serves as a moral compass and confidant for Newton, drawn to the mystery of his alien identity. His complicated past and curiosity ultimately lead him to a position of both support and conflict in Newton's journey.

🧑‍🏫 Mentor 🔍 Curious

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:29

Major Themes – The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
Explore the central themes of The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌌 Isolation

Isolation is a central theme, illustrated by Newton's detachment from humanity despite his integration. His alien existence highlights the deep loneliness that comes from being different and misunderstood in a world focused on superficial connections.

💔 Love and Loss

The love story between Newton and Mary-Lou captures the fleeting nature of relationships under the strain of time and addiction. Their reunion is marked by a bittersweet acknowledgment of lost love, showcasing how circumstances can metamorphose the deepest bonds.

🚀 Escapism

Newton's mission to return home symbolizes the longing for escape from the burdens of Earthly life. His ultimate failure to do so speaks to the broader human desire to transcend our limitations and connect with something greater.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:29

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