The Formula

The 1980 crime thriller directed by John G. Avildsen is based on Steve Shagan's novel of the same name, with Shagan also serving as the film's screenwriter and producer. The plot centers on Los Angeles police lieutenant Barney Caine (George C. Scott) investigating the murder of his friend and former boss, Tom Neeley. During the investigation, Caine uncovers the existence of a secret formula developed by the Nazis during World War II that allows gasoline to be synthesized from coal, potentially eliminating the world's dependence on oil. As the investigation progresses, Caine confronts powerful oil magnate Adam Steiffel (Marlon Brando), who seeks to keep the formula hidden to protect his company's interests. The film also features Marthe Keller as Lisa Spangler, John Gielgud as Dr. Abraham Esau, and Richard Lynch as General Helmut Kladen. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Cinematography but received negative reviews from critics and was a box office failure.