This was my first time watching a movie like this. And I'm not even a devoted fan to David Bowie. But I realized you don't need to have a developed knowledge of the topics to watch and appreciate this movie. It's simply mind gripping, the music, the imagery vibrates with you. It's the way in which you get to know Bowie, get to know who he was, and sooner or later, get to resonate with the character. I went to see the movie with multiple friends and we were all mesmerized the whole movie. Most of us (even I) shed tears. This will remain forever one of my favorite movies, as it's one of the most beautiful and soul shattering pieces of art I've ever witnessed. Even if you're not much into that stuff, I sincerely encourage you to give it a try (coming from a person new to these things).