Rising Storm (1989)
A campy sci-fi action comedy set in a gun-toting, televangelist-ruled America of 2099, where rebels fight back against a fundamentalist dictatorship.
Rising Storm - Movie Information
- Original Title: Rising Storm
- Release Year: 1989
- Directed by: Frank Schaeffer
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 21, 1989 (United States - R)
- Alternative Titles: Rebel Storm (US)
- Production Countries: Namibia, South Africa
Rising Storm - Plot
The year is 2099. The United States is ruled by the Reverend Jimmy Joe II, in a dictatorship where big guns and fundamentalist religion are used to keep the masses in control. The Reverend's troopers patrol the streets and the slums with assault rifles, ready to prevent any trouble from the revolutionary Kropfelders.
Rising Storm - Trailer
See the dystopian world of 2099 come to life in the official trailer:
Where to Watch Rising Storm
Looking for where to watch Rising Storm?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Rising Storm - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Frank Schaeffer
Main Cast
- Zach Galligan
- Wayne Crawford
- June Chadwick
- Elizabeth Keifer
- John Rhys-Davies
- Graham Clarke
Writers
- Gary Rosen
- William Fay
Rising Storm - FAQs
What is Rising Storm about?
Rising Storm is set in a dystopian America of 2099, where a televangelist dictator called Reverend Jimmy Joe II keeps the population in line with armed troopers and religious propaganda. A rebel faction known as the Kropfelders fights back against his oppressive regime in this action-comedy with a satirical edge.
Who are the main actors in Rising Storm?
The cast features Zach Galligan as Artie Gage, Wayne Crawford as Joe Gage, June Chadwick as Mila Hart, Elizabeth Keifer as Blaise Hart, John Rhys-Davies as Donwaldo, and Graham Clarke as Lt. Ulmer. Rhys-Davies and Galligan are probably the most recognizable names for genre fans.
Is Rising Storm based on a true story?
No, Rising Storm is a work of fiction. It's a speculative sci-fi story set in a future dystopian America, blending action and dark comedy. While it satirizes religious extremism and authoritarian control, the plot and characters are entirely invented rather than drawn from real events.
When was Rising Storm released?
Rising Storm was released on October 21, 1989, in the United States. It carries an R rating from the MPA. The film is also known under the alternative title Rebel Storm in the US market.
Why was Rising Storm filmed in Namibia and South Africa?
Like many low-budget genre films of the late 1980s, Rising Storm took advantage of the cost-effective production environments available in southern Africa. Filming in Namibia and South Africa allowed the production to stretch its budget further while achieving the desolate, post-apocalyptic visual landscape the story required.
What genre is Rising Storm?
Rising Storm blends action, comedy, and science fiction into a post-apocalyptic package. It leans into the campy, satirical B-movie tradition of late-1980s genre filmmaking, poking fun at religious fundamentalism and political authoritarianism while delivering the action beats fans of the era would expect.
What are similar movies to Rising Storm?
If you enjoy Rising Storm, you might also like America 3000 (1986), Phoenix the Warrior (1988), Creepozoids (1987), Roller Blade (1986), and Fist of the North Star (1995). For more recent post-apocalyptic action, Code 8 Part II (2024) and 40 Acres (2025) are worth checking out.
How long is Rising Storm?
Rising Storm runs for 95 minutes, making it a compact, no-fuss watch at just under an hour and a half. It's a brisk enough runtime that keeps the action and comedy moving without overstaying its welcome.
More About Rising Storm
Explore further details about Rising Storm on these trusted databases: