The Man Who Fell to Earth
Seen it?1976 | 139 min | Science Fiction, Drama, Fantasy
Saturday SpecialWhy it’s a Saturday Special
It earned strong reviews (81% on Rotten Tomatoes) and it's still drawing plenty of interest, despite soft box office. A strong pick for the weekend.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for sci-fi fans and fantasy fans. If you loved Blade Runner, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Mind-bending.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 19 min.
- What might put you off
- Rated R: meant for adults.
- Made in 1976: an older pace and style.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
Thomas Jerome Newton is an alien who has come to Earth in search of water to save his home planet. Aided by lawyer Oliver Farnsworth, Thomas uses his knowledge of advanced technology to create profitable inventions. While developing a method to transport water, Thomas meets Mary-Lou, a quiet hotel clerk, and begins to fall in love with her. Just as he is ready to leave Earth, Thomas is intercepted by the U.S. government, and his entire plan is threatened.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsStrong
81% on Rotten Tomatoes, 81 on Metacritic
- AudiencesSolid
6.5 out of 10
- AwardsBelow par
Nominated for 1 Berlin award.
- Reach & staying powerBelow par
Streaming release that reached a modest audience
- Buzz & cultural impactStrong
About 197K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by Nicolas Roeg
- David BowieThomas Jerome Newton
- Rip TornNathan Bryce
- Candy ClarkMary-Lou
- Tony MasciaArthur
- Buck HenryOliver Farnsworth
- Bernie CaseyPeters
- Adrienne La RussaHelen
- Claudia JenningsPeters' Wife (uncredited)
- Rick RiccardoTrevor
- Jim LovellJames Lovell