David Bowie's Tribute to 'Metropolis': A Musical and Visual Journey
David Bowie, a legendary musical artist, was also a fan of film and television as art forms. He admired Fritz Lang's 1927 sci-fi film "Metropolis" and even attempted to acquire the rights to it at one point. The movie, set in a futuristic city divided between the working class and city planners, has left a lasting legacy nearly a century later.
Bowie planned to pay tribute to "Metropolis" with an album initially titled "Metrobolist," later changed to "The Man Who Sold the World." During his time in Berlin, where expressionism thrived, Bowie drew inspiration from Lang's film for his work, including the set design for his "Diamond Dogs" tour.
Despite his admiration for "Metropolis," Bowie's attempt to buy the rights to the film was unsuccessful as he was outbid by Giorgio Moroder, a friend and collaborator. Moroder's version of the film, released in 1984 with a new musical score, differed from what Bowie had envisioned. Bowie's plans to create a restored version with a new score were thwarted, leaving fans to wonder about the potential of his interpretation.
While Bowie's vision for "Metropolis" remains a mystery, the enduring reputation of the film is evident. The failed "Metropolis" TV series in 2023, inspired by the movie, serves as a reminder of Bowie's admiration for the iconic film and his desire to leave his mark on its legacy.