The Man Who Fell to Earth

The classic novel that spawned the acclaimed film starring David Bowie, from the writer of The Queen's Gambit and The Hustler.

An alien arrives in Kentucky with five years to save the handful of survivors of his dying planet, and to save humanity from itself. Calling himself Thomas Newton, his plan is to use his race’s advanced technology to make millions, and then build a spaceship to bring the last of his people to live on Earth.

But Newton begins to doubt his purpose, and finds himself unable to cope with the emotional weight of being human. He finds solace with two fellow outsiders - cheery functioning alcoholic Betty-Jo, who falls quietly in love with him, and widowed scientist Nathan Bryce, who tracks him down after recognising his tech as impossible.

Little do they realise that the Government are watching…

Cast:
Thomas Newton: Harry Treadaway
Nathan Bryce: Christopher Eccleston
Betty-Jo: Laura Aikman
Farnsworth: Stuart Milligan
CIA Director Bowen: Glen McCready
Canutti: Ako Mitchell
Brinnarde: Andre Refig
Doctor Martinez: Fiona Sheehan
Sarah Miller: Alix Dunmore

Written by Stephen Keyworth
Adapted from the novel by Walter Tevis, courtesy of Studiocanal
Sound Design by Jon Nicholls
Original score by Gazelle Twin
Directed by Simon Barnard

A Bafflegab production for BBC Radio 4