The Formula
1980, English. Directed by John G. Avildsen.
Big Oil. Big Money. Big Mystery. Everyone’s out to make a killing.
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.
- Runtime
- 1h 57m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- R
Start now and it ends at ….
Snoozefest
Your time is worth more.
5.5/10 from 52 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch The Formula
The Formula is streaming on Artiflix in India.
Stream
ArtiflixAvailability in India as of 3 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
- John G. AvildsenDirector
- George C. ScottBarney Caine
- Marlon BrandoAdam Steiffel
- Marthe KellerLisa
- John GielgudDr. Abraham Esau
- G.D. SpradlinArthur Clements
- Beatrice StraightKay Neeley
- Richard LynchGeneral Helmut Kladen / Frank Tedesco
- John van DreelenHans Lehman
- Robin ClarkeMajor Tom Neeley
- Ike EisenmannTony
- Marshall ThompsonGeologist #1
- Dieter SchidorAssassin
Details
- Released
- 19 December 1980
- Country
- Germany, United States of America
- Written by
- Steve Shagan
- Budget
- $13M
- Box office
- $8.9M
Check ratings elsewhere
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The Formula: quick answers
Is The Formula worth watching?
Our verdict is Snoozefest: Your time is worth more. It scores 5.5/10 from 52 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is The Formula?
The Formula runs 117 minutes (1h 57m).
Does The Formula have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for The Formula. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
The Formula parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
The Formula is rated R in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is The Formula on?
The Formula is streaming on Artiflix in India. (Checked 3 November 2026.)
What movies are like The Formula?
If you liked The Formula, try No Way Out, Marathon Man, Hustle.
Who directed The Formula?
The Formula (1980) was directed by John G. Avildsen and stars George C. Scott, Marlon Brando, Marthe Keller.