David Bowie plays Thomas Jerome Newton, an extraterrestrial who comes to Earth in search of water for his drought-stricken planet. He initially encounters success as a businessman, but his true identity is eventually discovered, and he is forced to flee for his life.
The film is a classic of science fiction cinema, and Bowie's performance is considered one of his best. The film's themes of alienation and isolation resonate with Bowie's own experiences as a musician and performer.