Crash and Burn

Name: Crash and Burn
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Action, Horror
Released: 1990-06-04
Duration: 1 h 25 min
Rating: 4.3
Cast: Paul Ganus, Megan Ward, Ralph Waite, Bill Moseley, Eva LaRue

1990 ·1h 25m · ★ 4.3 (41)

Unicom is a powerful organization overseeing most of the world after its economic collapse. They have banned computers and robots in an attempt to insure "life, liberty, and the pursuit of economic stability". When a Unicom Synth robot infiltrates a southwest TV station and kills the manager, a revolutionary against the gestapo-like corporation, a lowly Unicom delivery man must help the rest of the station survive through the incoming "thermal storm".

Why it matters

A gritty sci-fi horror hybrid that channels early ‘90s techno-paranoia through a claustrophobic broadcast station siege.

Practical effects and synth-driven score evoke a stripped-down, pre-digital dystopia vibe akin to Carpenter’s darker visions.
A lesser-known cult artifact for fans of corporate conspiracy and robot rebellion subgenres, bridging body horror and tech-noir.
The low-budget, DIY aesthetic highlights regional filmmaking grit—perfect for viewers craving borderline DTV charm with a political edge.
Narrative stumbles under pacing issues, but the oppressive atmosphere and synth menace deliver enough tension to reward patient viewers.