The Black Marble

The Black Marble

Company type	Film
Industry	Motion picture
Founded	1980
Founder	Harold Becker (director), Frank Capra Jr. (producer)
Key people	Harold Becker (director), Frank Capra Jr. (producer), Maurice Jarre (music)
Products	Film

The Black Marble is a 1980 American film blending mystery, romance, and comedy, directed by Harold Becker and adapted from Joseph Wambaugh's 1978 novel. The production was led by Frank Capra Jr., featuring a musical score composed by Maurice Jarre. The cast includes Robert Foxworth portraying LAPD Sergeant A.M. Valnikov, Paula Prentiss as his pragmatic partner Sgt. Natalie Zimmerman, and Harry Dean Stanton playing Philo Skinner, a distressed dog groomer who kidnaps a prize-winning canine for ransom.

Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, the narrative centers on Valnikov, who battles alcoholism and personal loss, alongside Zimmerman as they investigate the theft of the dog. Their working relationship gradually deepens into understanding and romance while Valnikov faces his own struggles within the framework of the police investigation. Although the film earned $2.5 million on a $3 million budget, it received commendations for its unique mix of drama, humor, and romantic elements. Joseph Wambaugh was honored with the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture for this work.

The phrase “Black Marble” serves as a metaphor for an unlucky fate, mirroring the characters’ initial misfortunes before they achieve redemption through resilience and connection.

Plot

Sgt. Natalie Zimmerman from the LAPD is assigned to partner with Sgt. Valnikov, a Russian-American detective grappling with a midlife crisis and alcoholism caused by occupational stress. Together, they delve into the case involving Philo Skinner, a compulsive gambler who operates a pet grooming business and kidnaps an expensive dog belonging to a Beverly Hills socialite to settle his debts.

Their collaboration not only advances the investigation but also aids Valnikov’s personal recovery, leading to a romantic bond between them. While lighter in tone compared to most of Wambaugh's narratives, the film still examines the psychological impact of police work.

The term "black marble" symbolizes bad luck or drawing the short straw—a concept Zimmerman initially uses to describe her own misfortune and applies to Valnikov before reassessing her perspective.

Production

Following the success of The Onion Field in 1979, Joseph Wambaugh partnered with producer Frank Capra Jr. to develop this dramatic comedy under director Harold Becker. This film serves as a companion piece exploring police officers’ private lives. Notably, James Woods, who starred in The Onion Field, makes a cameo appearance here.

The role of Sgt. Natalie Zimmerman was specifically sought for Paula Prentiss. After focusing on television projects following her 1975 appearance in The Stepford Wives, Prentiss returned to cinema for this part, even adjusting her physique to suit the character.

Reception

In February 1980, Roger Ebert reviewed the film for the Chicago Sun-Times, awarding it three-and-a-half stars and describing it as an "uncommon and distinctive comedy" that was "engaging and delightful" despite some imperfections. Gene Siskel rated it 2½ stars, commending its police thriller aspects but expressing reservations about the romantic storyline. Their critiques attracted considerable attention, especially during a special broadcast highlighting their review discussions.

Though it did not achieve commercial success, The Black Marble received the esteemed Edgar Allan Poe Award from the Mystery Writers of America. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 36% approval rating based on six reviews.

Awards

1981 Edgar Awards

• Edgar Award for Best Film – Harold Becker