The Man Who Fell to Earth

The Man Who Fell to Earth

Year: 1976

Runtime: 139 min

Language: English

Director: Nicolas Roeg

Sci-FiDrama

An alien being arrives on Earth seeking water to save his dying planet. He struggles to understand human customs and technology while attempting to achieve his mission. The visually striking film explores themes of isolation, alienation, and the challenges of cross-cultural communication, featuring a captivating performance from David Bowie in his first major film role, alongside Candy Clark, Buck Henry, and Rip Torn.

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Timeline – The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)

Trace every key event in The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Arrival on Earth

Thomas Jerome Newton, a humanoid alien from a distant planet, lands in the stark landscapes of New Mexico. Disguised as an ordinary Englishman, he has come to Earth on a critical mission to transport water back to his drought-stricken home planet.

New Mexico
2

Becoming Wealthy

Using his advanced technology, Newton quickly patents several inventions, leading to massive wealth. He becomes the head of World Enterprises Corporation, aided by his skilled patent attorney, Oliver Farnsworth, who helps navigate the legal intricacies of his innovations.

3

Meeting Mary-Lou

During a visit to New Mexico, Newton encounters Mary-Lou, a lonely young woman from Oklahoma. Their connection deepens, and Mary-Lou introduces him to various earthly customs, creating a unique bond that leads them to share a home together.

Oklahoma
4

Dr. Nathan Bryce's Introduction

Dr. Nathan Bryce, a former college professor with a questionable history, becomes a fuel technician at World Enterprises. Sensing the alien nature of Newton, he becomes a confidant and seeks to uncover the truth about him.

5

Discovery of Newton's Alien Physiology

Curious about Newton, Dr. Bryce arranges a clandestine meeting where he employs an X-ray camera. This meeting reveals Newton’s alien physiology, which confirms Bryce's suspicions and opens an avenue for deeper intrigue.

6

Addiction Struggles

As Newton becomes increasingly addicted to alcohol and distracted by television, tension builds between him and Mary-Lou. Their relationship strains, culminating in a moment of revelation where Newton shows Mary-Lou his true alien form, leading to her terrified flight.

7

Foreboding Turmoil

Just as Newton is readying his spacecraft for its maiden voyage to transport water back home, he is unexpectedly taken hostage by the government and a rival company. This marks the beginning of a tumultuous turn in his life on Earth.

8

Farnsworth's Murder

As chaos unfolds, Newton's business partner, Oliver Farnsworth, is murdered, leaving Newton vulnerable and trapped. He finds himself confined to a luxurious apartment under tight observation, coupled with rigorous medical examinations.

Hotel Complex
9

Medical Experimentation

While in confinement, the government sedates Newton with alcohol, leading to a harrowing experience where his alien contact lenses fuse with his eyes during an X-ray procedure. This traumatic event symbolizes the loss of his autonomy and freedom.

10

Unfortunate Years of Confinement

Years pass in his derelict confinement, but a familiar face reappears when Mary-Lou visits him. Now aged and affected by life's struggles, she engages in a bittersweet reunion filled with playful antics, yet their love has faded.

11

The Choice to Leave

Eventually, Newton discovers that his locked prison is actually unlocked, offering him a chance at freedom. He makes the choice to leave, breaking free from the shackles of his restrained existence, although he remains lost and conflicted.

12

Record of Alien Signals

With no feasible way to return to his home planet, Newton records a heartfelt message filled with alien signals. This attempt symbolizes his desperation and longing to reach out to his origins, despite his current despondent state.

13

Chance Encounter with Dr. Bryce

Years later, Dr. Bryce, now married to Mary-Lou, encounters Newton again at a restaurant. Despite the passing years, Newton maintains his youthful appearance and wealth but is shrouded in sadness and the burdens of alcoholism.

Restaurant
14

Final Moments at the Restaurant

As Newton sits on the restaurant's patio, he inquires about Mary-Lou, triggering a wave of nostalgia. Succumbing to a drunken stupor, he reflects on his tragic journey, encapsulating both his alien nature and human fragments.

Restaurant

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 16:12

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The Man Who Fell to Earth Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Man Who Fell to Earth

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