Nicolas Roeg's "THE MAN WHO FELL TO EARTH" has been previously released by WELLSPRING.  Unfortunately, that version, while letterboxed, didn't have 16:9 enhancement, and the sound was only adequate, at best.

ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT has released a "THX" approved version of the film, and it should satisfy even the most demanding viewer.  David Bowie stars as Jerome Newton, an alien disguised as a human.  There's a brilliant opening sequence, wherein we're first introduced to him in a way only Roeg could pull off.  As he makes his way down a dirty embankment, we know that this is a stranger in an even stranger land.  Jerome is on earth for one good reason.  He hopes to use his advanced technology and intellect to see patents on inventions, making him enough money to build a ship that will carry back huge amounts of water to his home planet, which has lost almost all of its water to drought.  He's in a race against time to get back fast enough to save his family.

Unfortunately, Newton's plans are thrown into jeopardy by greedy businessmen wanting to steal his inventions by any means necessary. This film has always been controversial due to the sexuality depicted, and some prudes may be turned off by this, but Roeg's imagery, while graphic, is never exploitive.  Bowie is quite good here, bringing great empathy to his character, but the whole supporting cast is terrific.  Rip Torn, Buck Henry and Candy Clark, all offer more than a few memorable moments. 

ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT has preserved the film's 2.35:1 aspect ratio, with 16:9 enhancement.  Colors are greatly improved over the Wellspring(FOX LORBER) dvd. There's substantially greater definition in every scene.  Colors are well balanced, and even rich.  Contrast is impressive, even with minor grain present.  Blacks and grays are deep enough to bring terrific clarity to dark scenes. Fleshtones appear natural throughout. 

ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT deserves great praise for the audio work they've been giving to many of their releases.  This release offers both a DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1(EX) and DTS(ES) option! The added surround moments truly enhance the film's impact.  While some purists will disagree with the idea of any remix, ANCHOR BAY has consistently improved upon films with their work in this area, and what's been accomplished with "THE MAN WHO FELL TO EARTH" s a fine example! There's excellent separation, and while it's not an aggressive mix, every subtle sound effect or music cue is impressive.  The DTS version offers slightly better bass.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion.

ANCHOR BAY is releasing two versions of this film. One version is the "film only," and another version offers supplements on a 2nd disc.  Included on this 2nd disc is a featurette. The featurette offers interviews with Roeg, Candy Clark and others.  It feels too brief, but it's entertaining all the same.  The film's theatrical trailer, tv spots and photos are also included.