Thomas Jerome Newton is played by actor David Bowie in The Man Who Fell to Earth. He is an alien from a dying planet who has traveled to Earth in search of a way to save his people. Newton uses his advanced knowledge of technology to create a number of inventions, including a series of patents that make him a wealthy man.
Newton's exploits eventually attract the attention of the US government, who becomes increasingly interested in his work. They assign a mysterious agent named Bryce (played by actor Rip Torn) to keep an eye on him. Newton begins a romantic relationship with a hotel clerk named Mary-Lou (played by actress Candy Clark), and the two fall in love.
As his plans to transport water back to his home planet become more and more advanced, Newton comes under increasing scrutiny from Bryce and the government. Eventually, they manage to capture him and keep him in a heavily guarded facility, forcing him to continue his work under their supervision.
The Man Who Fell to Earth is based on a novel by Walter Tevis and was directed by Nicolas Roeg. It explores themes of love, alienation, and the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. While not a commercial success when it was first released in 1976, the film has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of Bowie's most memorable performances.