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.

David Bowie
as Thomas Jerome Newton

Rip Torn
as Nathan Bryce

Candy Clark
as Mary-Lou

Tony Mascia
as Arthur

Buck Henry
as Oliver Farnsworth

Bernie Casey
as Peters

Adrienne La Russa
as Helen

Claudia Jennings
as Peters' Wife

Rick Riccardo
as Trevor

Jim Lovell
as James Lovell
CinemaSerf
Very much a vehicle for David Bowie, this is otherwise a rather derivative and unimaginative story of an alien ("Newton") who arrives on Earth, naked and penniless. He is tasked with trying to find a way to save his own doomed planet, but quickly discovers that he has skills! He can make money, and ...