The series is based on the novel of the same name and the 1976 film adaptation of the book. The series will tell the story of a new alien (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who comes to Earth at a turning point in human evolution and has to face his past and decide the future of mankind. Chiwetel Ejiofor's alien is a brand new character with a brand new background story. The character belongs to the same species as the alien played by David Bowie in the movie. Bill Nighy plays Thomas Newton, the classic role played by David Bowie. Naomie Harris plays Justin Falls, a smart scientist and engineer.