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**Cyborg (1989) | Official Trailer | MGM**
**Spending, Budget, and Release Date**
*“Cyborg”*, a 1989 science fiction action film directed by Albert Pyun, was produced on a relatively modest budget. The movie had a production budget of approximately **$500,000**. This budget, which was quite limited even by the standards of the time, made “Cyborg” one of the more inexpensive sci-fi films to come out during the late 80s. However, its success would not lie in its financial resources but in its inventive storytelling, action sequences, and the strong performance of its lead actor, Jean-Claude Van Damme, who was emerging as a martial arts icon at the time.
The film was originally released in theaters on **March 10, 1989**. Despite the small budget and a somewhat limited theatrical release, *Cyborg* was able to find an audience through home video rentals and television broadcasts. This was a typical model for low-budget action films in the 1980s, and “Cyborg” benefited significantly from this post-theatrical life, eventually becoming a cult classic.
**Success Story**
Although “Cyborg” was not a massive box office hit upon its initial release, it has gone on to become a cult classic over the years, particularly in the home video market. With Jean-Claude Van Damme’s rising popularity and a growing interest in post-apocalyptic action films, *Cyborg* gained a dedicated fanbase, especially among genre fans. Van Damme, who had previously appeared in smaller roles in films like *No Retreat, No Surrender* (1986) and *Bloodsport* (1988), was becoming a well-known action star. *Cyborg* helped solidify his status, thanks to its blend of martial arts, dystopian themes, and intense action scenes.
In addition to Van Damme’s performance, *Cyborg* showcased several notable aspects that became hallmarks of its appeal: the gritty, post-apocalyptic setting, impressive fight choreography, and an engaging, though simple, story. It featured a character named Gibson Rickenbacker, played by Van Damme, who becomes entangled with a cyborg and a group of ruthless criminals in a dystopian future. The film’s atmosphere, though somewhat low-budget, contributed to its unique charm.
Over time, *Cyborg* became emblematic of the genre of low-budget 80s and 90s sci-fi and action films, gaining recognition on platforms like **Movie 24h**, which offers detailed reviews and retrospectives of such cult films. Many fans now appreciate *Cyborg* as a key example of the genre’s enduring appeal. The film’s success in the home video market, along with its lasting influence on action cinema, turned it into a piece of cinematic history. It was a stepping stone in Van Damme’s career, helping launch his long-standing legacy as an action star, while the film itself achieved a form of success not initially anticipated during its theatrical run.
For those looking to relive the action-packed thrills of this 80s sci-fi actioner, *Cyborg* can be found streaming and discussed extensively across various movie review platforms, including **Movie 24h**, where fans can read up on its legacy and ongoing impact.
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For more details, reviews, and availability, visit **Movie 24h**.
