Not just any old David Bowie film at IFFR. The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976, Nicolas Roeg) is the cult sci-fi film the play Lazarus is based on. Lazarus premiered to great acclaim in New York on 7 December 2015. Based on an idea by Bowie and directed by Ivo van Hove, primarily known for his work as the director of Toneelgroep Amsterdam (theatre group), the play – along with his 25th studio album Blackstar – was one of David Bowie’s parting words for the planet.
In The Man Who Fell to Earth Bowie provides a marvellous performance as Thomas Jerome Newton, an alien who has come to earth to look for water for his own planet. Alienation abounds. Van Hove revealed that he was certain Bowie viewed himself as Newton. One more time on the big screen: a unique experience for Bowie and film lovers. Both before and after the screening a DJ will play suitable music to help you catch the Bowie vibe. Dedicated to the (musical) legend who recently left this world.
Film details
- Country of production
- United Kingdom
- Year
- 1976
- Festival edition
- IFFR 2016
- Length
- 139'
- Medium/Format
- DCP
