First advertised as a “mind—stretching experience,” Nicolas Roeg’s 1976
The Man Who Fell to Earth
stunned the cinema world. A
tour—de—force of science fiction as art form
, the movie brought not only hallucinatory visuals and a haunting exploration of contemporary alienation, but also glam—rock legend
David Bowie in his lead role debut
as paranoid alien Newton.
Based on Walter Tevis’s 1963 sci—fi fable of the same title,
follows alien Newton from his arrival on earth in search of water; his transition to wealthy entrepreneur, leveraging the advanced technologies of his native planet; his sexual awakening with the young Mary—Lou; and then the discovery of his alien identity, his imprisonment, abandonment, and descent into alcoholism. Throughout, Roeg coaxed a beguiling performance from his cast, presenting not only
Bowie
in ethereal space—traveler glory, but also pitch—perfect supporting performances from
Candy Clark, Rip Torn, and Buck Henry.
TASCHEN’s
presents a plenitude of
stills and behind—the—scenes images
by unit photographer David James, including numerous shots of Bowie at his playful and ambiguous best. A fresh introductory essay explores the shooting of the film and its lasting impact, drawing upon an exclusive interview with David James, who brings
first—hand insights
into the making of this sci—fi masterwork.