The Beast (1988)
A Soviet tank crew lost in the Afghan mountains faces both a relentless Mujahideen pursuit and the tyranny of their own commander.
The Beast - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Beast
- Release Year: 1988
- Directed by: Kevin Reynolds
- Type: Movie
- Genres: War, Drama
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 51m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: Pushto, English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 29, 1988 (Germany - 16)
- Alternative Titles: The Beast of War (US), La Bête de guerre (FR), Bestias de la Guerra (MX), Bestias de la Guerra (ES)
- Production Companies: Brightstar Films
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Beast - Plot
During the war in Afghanistan a Soviet tank crew commanded by a tyrannical officer find themselves lost and in a struggle against a band of Mujahadeen guerrillas in the mountains.
The Beast - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the tension unfold:
War brings out the beast in every man.
Where to Watch The Beast
Looking for where to watch The Beast?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Beast - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Kevin Reynolds
Main Cast
- George Dzundza
- Jason Patric
- Steven Bauer
- Stephen Baldwin
- Don Harvey
- Kabir Bedi
- Erick Avari
- Chaim Jeraffi
- Shoshi Marciano
- Yitzhak Ne'eman
Writers
- William Mastrosimone
Producers
- John Fiedler
The Beast - FAQs
Where can you stream The Beast (1988)?
The Beast (1988) is available to watch for free with ads on Tubi TV and YouTube Free. It can also be rented or purchased digitally through Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Availability may vary by region.
Is The Beast based on a true story?
The Beast is not based on a specific true story, but it draws heavily from the real Soviet-Afghan War (1979–1989). It is adapted from William Mastrosimone's stage play “Nanawatai,” which was itself inspired by the brutal realities of that conflict and the Pashtunwali code of honor.
Who are the main actors in The Beast?
The Beast stars George Dzundza as the ruthless tank commander Daskal and Jason Patric as the conflicted soldier Koverchenko. The supporting cast includes Steven Bauer, Stephen Baldwin, Don Harvey, and Kabir Bedi, who plays the Mujahideen leader Khan Taj.
What is The Beast (1988) about?
The Beast follows a Soviet tank crew that becomes stranded in the Afghan mountains after a brutal village raid. Pursued by Mujahideen fighters seeking vengeance, the crew fractures under the command of a tyrannical officer, forcing one soldier to question his loyalty and humanity.
Does The Beast have a moral ending?
The film builds toward a morally charged conclusion rooted in the Pashtunwali concept of “Nanawatai,” or sanctuary. The ending tests whether mercy can survive in wartime, as the Mujahideen must decide the fate of the lone Soviet soldier who showed them humanity during the pursuit.
What is the age rating for The Beast?
The Beast is rated R in the United States. The rating reflects the film's intense war violence, depictions of brutality, and mature thematic content surrounding the Soviet-Afghan conflict. It is not recommended for younger audiences.
Who directed The Beast (1988)?
The Beast was directed by Kevin Reynolds, who later went on to direct Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991) and Waterworld (1995). The Beast remains one of his most critically respected works, praised for its taut tension and moral complexity.
How long is The Beast (1988)?
The Beast has a runtime of 111 minutes, approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes. The film maintains a focused, relentless pace throughout, using its lean runtime to build sustained psychological and physical tension across the Afghan mountain landscape.
More About The Beast
Explore further details about The Beast on these authoritative databases: