Essay Outline

I. Introduction

a. David Bowie’s venture into film paralleled his style, persona and music throughout his career. His thoughts on his own work influenced his decisions to expand his artistic projects, resulting in a body of work that evolved with the artist, highlighting every aspect of his creative strengths.

II. “The Man Who Fell to Earth”

a. Came out in 1976, putting it in context with “Ziggy Stardust” and “Station to Station.”

b. By this point Bowie was well associated with his space fallen alter ego Ziggy Stardust, so the shift was natural to playing an alien figure in film

III. “Labyrinth”

a. Came out in 1986, putting it in context with “Tonight” and “Never Let Me Down.”

b. Bowie publicly disliked the albums released during the time he was working on “Labyrinth” which perhaps pushed him to recreate his image through film instead of music

IV. “Basquiat”

a. Came out in 1996, putting it in context with “Outside.”

b. Emulates Andy Warhol in the film, connects to Bowie’s pop art sensibilities; connection to art, fashion and music relevant

V. Conclusion

a. Through Bowie’s separate ventures, he was able to expand the evolving personas he created through his music.