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The Formula

1980 · Movie · R · 117 min · ★ 5.6

ThrillerMysteryCrime

While investigating the death of a friend and fellow cop, Los Angeles police officer Barney Caine stumbles across evidence that Nazis created a synthetic alternative to gasoline during World War II. This revelation has the potential to end the established global oil industry, making the formula a very valuable and dangerous piece of information. Eventually, Caine must contend with oil tycoon Adam Steiffel, who clearly has his own agenda regarding the formula.

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Details
Years
1980
Release date
1980-12-19
Language
English
Rated
R
Runtime
117 min
TMDB rating
5.6/10 (49 votes)
Box office
$8,894,289
Budget
$13,200,000

Themes

  • espionage
  • big oil
  • international intrigue

Awards & recognition

  • Academy AwardBest Cinematography · 1981 · nominated
  • Golden Raspberry AwardWorst Screenplay · 1981 · nominated
  • Golden Raspberry AwardWorst Supporting Actor - Razzie Award · 1981 · nominated
  • Golden Raspberry AwardWorst Picture · 1981 · nominated
  • Golden Raspberry AwardWorst Director · 1981 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by John G. Avildsen